Civilising Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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civilising
[ˈsɪv.ɪ.laɪ.zɪŋ ]
Definition
cultural development
The term 'civilising' refers to the process of bringing a society or group to a more advanced state of cultural, social, and moral awareness. This can involve the introduction of education, laws, and ethical systems designed to uplift and improve the society. The civilising process often entails promoting values of respect, tolerance, and enlightenment. Throughout history, various civilizations have undertaken civilising missions, sometimes viewed controversially depending on the context and outcomes.
Synonyms
cultivating, educating, improving, refining.
Examples of usage
- The civilising mission of the empire was often justified as a noble cause.
- Efforts in civilising often include education and moral guidance.
- The civilising influence of art can enhance community engagement.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- During the Enlightenment, thinkers emphasized reason and individual rights, fostering a civilising ethos in Western societies.
- The concept played a significant role during the colonial era, where European powers often claimed they were 'civilising' the territories they colonized.
Cultural Impact
- Many art movements, like the Renaissance, aimed to elevate the human experience through culture and education, tied to the idea of civilising.
- Civilising themes frequently appear in literature, such as in works exploring the clash between civilized society and nature.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that human beings are innately social and cooperation is a vital part of developing civil societies.
- The concept of 'civilising' often overlaps with promoting empathy and understanding among individuals.
Modern Applications
- In contemporary discussions, the term is often used to critique practices in international relations, questioning the ethics of intervention.
- Various organizations today focus on civilising efforts through education, conflict resolution, and promoting human rights.
Origin of 'civilising'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'civilis', meaning 'relating to citizens'.
- It first appeared in the English language around the late 18th century, reflecting ideas of progress and improvement in society.
The word 'civilising' is derived from the Latin root 'civilis', which means 'pertaining to a citizen'. This term has evolved through Old French and Middle English, gaining its modern form in the 19th century. The concept of 'civilising' became particularly prominent during periods of imperial expansion, when European powers sought to impose their cultural norms on other societies. With colonialism, the term often carried a paternalistic connotation, implying that non-European societies were 'savage' or 'primitive'. As societal values have evolved, the implications of civilising missions have been re-evaluated, leading to increased discourse on cultural relativism, the ethics of intervention, and post-colonial theories.