Inhumane Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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inhumane
[ɪnˈhjuː.meɪn ]
Definitions
behavior
Lacking compassion or kindness; cruel and brutal.
Synonyms
brutal, cruel, heartless, ruthless.
Examples of usage
- He was accused of inhumane treatment of his employees.
- The conditions in the prison were described as inhumane.
- The inhumane actions of the dictator shocked the world.
society
Not conforming to humane values; lacking respect for human dignity.
Synonyms
barbaric, inhuman, uncivilized.
Examples of usage
- The inhumane treatment of refugees sparked international outrage.
- The decision to separate families at the border was criticized as inhumane.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Throughout history, many events, like wars and genocides, have been described as inhumane due to the suffering caused.
- The Industrial Revolution brought about inhumane working conditions in factories where workers, including children, labored long hours in unsafe environments.
Psychology
- Psychological studies suggest that people can commit inhumane acts due to dehumanization, which diminishes empathy for others.
- Obedience to authority figures can lead individuals to perform inhumane actions, especially in high-stress situations.
Literature
- Many novels address inhumane themes, highlighting society’s moral failures, like in '1984' by George Orwell, where oppressive regimes strip away human rights.
- Classical tragedies often explore the capacity for inhumanity within characters, such as in Shakespeare's plays.
Ethics
- Debates about animal rights often include the term, addressing issues of cruelty in industrial farming.
- Humanitarian organizations like Amnesty International use the term to call out injustices and promote better treatment of individuals worldwide.
Origin of 'inhumane'
Main points about word origin
- The term derives from the Latin 'inhumanus,' meaning 'not human,' with 'in-' indicating a negation.
- It entered the English language in the 14th century, primarily used to describe behavior that is not characteristic of humans.
The word 'inhumane' originated in the late 16th century from the Latin word 'inhumanus', which means 'cruel, unfeeling'. The term has been used to describe actions or behaviors that are considered lacking in compassion or kindness towards others, often resulting in suffering or harm. Throughout history, instances of inhumane treatment have been documented in various contexts, leading to calls for greater empathy and respect for human rights.