The category of Other is as original as consciousness…
““The category of Other is as original as consciousness itself. The duality between Self and Other can be found in the most primitive societies, in the most ancient mythologies; the division did not always fall into the category of the division of the sexes (...) No group ever defines itself as One without immediately setting up the Other opposite itself. It only takes three travelers brought together by chance in the same train compartment for the rest of the travellers to become vaguely hostile 'others'. Village people view anyone not belonging to the village as suspicious 'others'. For the native of a country, inhabitants of other countries are viewed as 'foreigners'; Jews are the 'others' for anti-Semites, blacks for racist Americans, indigenous people for colonists, proletarians for the propertied classes.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The concept of “Other” is a fundamental way humans distinguish themselves from those they see as different, shaping social hierarchies and prejudice.
In simple terms: We define ourselves by opposing others.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge the habit of othering.
Themes
identity
otherness
power
prejudice
social hierarchy
Mood
reflective
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
social commentary
critical theory
When to use this quote
- immigration debates
- racial tensions
- colonial encounters
- workplace dynamics
- online communities
Key Concepts
existentialism
phenomenology
colonialism
racism
classism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you see yourself in relation to those you label as “other”?
- What steps can reduce the impulse to other?
A Different Perspective
Othering can oversimplify complex identities and fuel conflict.