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Objectification Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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objectification

[ษ™bหŒdส’ษ›ktษชfษชหˆkeษชสƒษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

gender inequality

The act of treating someone as an object, without considering their feelings or humanity. It often involves reducing a person to their physical appearance or sexual function.

Synonyms

commodification, dehumanization, depersonalization.

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Word Description / Examples
objectification

This term applies when an individual or group is perceived as mere objects rather than human beings, often discussed in the social and psychological spheres.

  • Educational campaigns aim to reduce the objectification portrayed in advertising.
  • Objectification can lead to serious mental health issues and reduced self-esteem.
dehumanization

This word is used to describe the process of depriving someone of human qualities or attributes, making them feel less human. It is often used in contexts involving extreme mistreatment or violence.

  • During the war, propaganda was used for the dehumanization of the enemy.
  • The dehumanization of marginalized groups can lead to increased discrimination and violence.
commodification

This term is used when something, usually a person or a complex idea, is turned into a commodity that can be bought or sold. It is often discussed in economic or sociological contexts.

  • The commodification of art has changed how people value and appreciate artworks.
  • Critics argue that the commodification of education undermines its true purpose.
depersonalization

Depersonalization is typically used in psychological contexts to describe a feeling of being detached from oneself or oneโ€™s identity. It can also refer to the treatment of individuals as anonymous or faceless entities.

  • Patients reported feelings of depersonalization and detachment during their treatment for anxiety.
  • Workplace depersonalization can make employees feel undervalued and replaceable.

Examples of usage

  • She felt uncomfortable with the constant objectification by her male coworkers.
  • Objectification in the media contributes to harmful stereotypes.
  • The objectification of women has been a long-standing issue in society.
Context #2 | Noun

philosophy

The philosophical concept of treating something abstract as if it were a concrete object. It involves attributing physical properties to non-physical entities.

Synonyms

concretization, reification.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
objectification

This term is often used in discussions about social issues, particularly when referring to the treatment of a person, typically a woman, as an object rather than a human being with feelings and rights. It has a negative connotation.

  • The media's portrayal of women often leads to their objectification.
  • Complaints about the objectification of employees were taken very seriously by the HR department.
reification

This term is usually found in philosophical and sociological discussions. It refers to treating an abstract concept as if it were a real, tangible thing. It often carries a critical tone.

  • Marx criticized the reification of social relations in capitalist societies.
  • The reification of the company's culture made it difficult to implement changes.
concretization

This word is typically used in an academic or technical context to describe the process of making an abstract concept more concrete or specific. It is neutral and mainly used in formal settings.

  • The teacher's concretization of theoretical ideas helped the students understand the material better.
  • The project requires the concretization of the initial vague plans.

Examples of usage

  • In his argument, he used objectification to simplify a complex idea.
  • Objectification of concepts can help in understanding them better.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that seeing someone as an object can lessen empathy and compassion towards them.
  • Objectification can lead to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, especially for those who experience it regularly.

Media and Pop Culture

  • In advertising, objectification is often used to sell products by portraying people in ways that highlight their physical features rather than their personality.
  • Films and music videos sometimes depict characters in objectified roles, which can influence real-life perceptions of relationships and sexuality.

Feminism and Gender Studies

  • Feminist theorists argue that objectification is prevalent in media representations of women, reducing them to mere visuals instead of acknowledging their intellect and agency.
  • Research indicates that societal objectification of women contributes to gender inequality and violence against them.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers discuss objectification in the context of moral philosophy, debating the implications of treating individuals as mere means to an end instead of valuable ends in themselves.
  • The concept raises questions about personal autonomy and dignity in different areas of life, including work and relationships.

Education

  • Educational programs addressing objectification often focus on media literacy, helping students critically analyze how people are portrayed in various media forms.
  • Schools are increasingly incorporating lessons on empathy and respect to combat the harmful effects of objectification in social relationships.

Origin of 'objectification'

The term 'objectification' originated in the 19th century, primarily in the field of philosophy. It gained more widespread usage in the 20th and 21st centuries, especially in discussions around gender equality and media representation. The concept of objectification has been heavily debated in various academic disciplines, with a focus on its implications for social dynamics and individual well-being.

See also: object, objectify, objection, objectionable, objective, objectively, objectivity, objector, unobjectionable.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,810, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.