Otherness: meaning, definitions and examples

philosophy, identity

Otherness refers to the concept of perceiving someone or something as different or distinct from oneself. It represents the qualities or characteristics that define someone as 'the other,' often leading to divisions in society based on race, culture, or ideology. Otherness plays a significant role in discussions about identity, belonging, and how societies define membership. It is also used in literary and cultural studies to explore how marginalized groups are portrayed in relation to dominant groups.

alterity, difference, distinctiveness, separation

Examples of usage

• The theme of otherness is prevalent in post-colonial literature.

• She discussed the otherness of immigrant experiences in her essay.

• The film explores the otherness of different cultures.

• In sociology, understanding otherness helps analyze social dynamics.