Decentered: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The prefix 'de-' means to reverse or remove, while 'centered' comes from the word 'center', implying moving away from a central point.
• The term has roots in various disciplines, including philosophy and sociology, where it emphasizes a shift in perspective.

Philosophy

• In postmodern philosophy, decentering refers to questioning dominant narratives and focusing on marginalized voices.
• Jacques Derrida and Michel Foucault contributed to the concept by advocating for multiple viewpoints instead of a singular truth.

Art

• In modern art, decentered composition rejects traditional focal points, allowing viewers to appreciate the entire canvas.
• Artists like Wassily Kandinsky and Jackson Pollock exemplified this by creating works that engage the audience throughout, rather than upholding a single narrative.

Psychology

• Cognitive psychology uses the idea of decentering to help individuals overcome egocentric thought patterns, promoting empathy and understanding.
• Mindfulness practices often encourage decentering thoughts to reduce anxiety and improve emotional resilience.

Education

• In classroom settings, decentering approaches involve shifting the focus from teacher-led instruction to student-centered learning, fostering collaboration.
• This method encourages diverse perspectives in the learning process, helping students become critical thinkers.

Ranking #36,025, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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