Scapegoating: meaning, definitions and examples

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scapegoating

 

[ ˈskeɪpˌɡoʊtɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

blame assignment

Scapegoating is the practice of unfairly blaming a person or group for problems or negative outcomes. This phenomenon often occurs in social and political contexts, where individuals or groups are targeted to divert attention from the actual issues at hand. In many cases, scapegoating serves to reinforce existing prejudices and can lead to harmful consequences for the individuals or groups that are unjustly blamed. The term originates from the ancient ritual in which a goat was symbolically burdened with the sins of the people and then driven away to atone for them.

Synonyms

blame-shifting, fault-finding, scapegoatism.

Examples of usage

  • The politician engaged in scapegoating to distract from his own failures.
  • In times of economic crisis, minorities often become the victims of scapegoating.
  • Scapegoating can lead to social unrest and division within a community.

Translations

Translations of the word "scapegoating" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bode expiatório

🇮🇳 बलि का बकरा

🇩🇪 Sündenbock

🇮🇩 kambing hitam

🇺🇦 козел відпущення

🇵🇱 kozioł ofiarny

🇯🇵 スケープゴート

🇫🇷 bouc émissaire

🇪🇸 chivo expiatorio

🇹🇷 günah keçisi

🇰🇷 희생양

🇸🇦 كبش فداء

🇨🇿 obětní beránek

🇸🇰 obetný baránok

🇨🇳 替罪羊

🇸🇮 žrtveni kozel

🇮🇸 syndabók

🇰🇿 құрбан қой

🇬🇪 შეწირული თხა

🇦🇿 qurban keçisi

🇲🇽 chivo expiatorio

Etymology

The term scapegoating has its roots in biblical tradition, specifically from the Book of Leviticus. In this ancient ritual, a goat was selected and symbolically assigned the sins of the people, after which it was sent into the wilderness, effectively carrying away their transgressions. This practice was seen as a way to seek atonement and release from guilt. The term 'scapegoat' first appeared in English in the early 17th century. Over time, the concept evolved beyond its religious origins to describe social dynamics where individuals or groups are unjustly blamed for a wide array of problems. Societal scapegoating can serve various functions, such as consolidating group identity or justifying aggression towards out-groups. The psychological effects of scapegoating can be profound, impacting both the victimized group and the larger society.