The portrayal of Native Americans in Westerns

Oct 13, 2025 by thesweetdesigns.com 18 views

What is "Othering" and How Does it Affect Us?

The concept of "othering" is a complex and multifaceted idea that has been explored in various fields, including literature, sociology, and psychology. At its core, "othering" refers to the process of creating a distinction between one's own group or identity and another group or identity, often resulting in the marginalization or exclusion of the latter. This can be seen in the way certain groups are portrayed in literature, media, and everyday life, where they are often depicted as "other," "different," or "less than."

The Origins of "Othering"

The concept of "othering" has its roots in the work of philosopher Emmanuel Levinas, who argued that the self is defined by its relationship to the other. According to Levinas, the self is not a fixed entity, but rather a dynamic and relational concept that is shaped by its interactions with others. However, this relationship is often characterized by a sense of distance, difference, and even hostility, which can lead to the creation of an "other" that is perceived as threatening or inferior.

Types of "Othering"

There are several types of "othering" that can be observed in literature and society. Some of the most common include:

Racial and ethnic "othering": This involves the portrayal of certain racial or ethnic groups as inferior or exotic, often resulting in their marginalization or exclusion.
Sexual "othering": This involves the portrayal of certain sexual orientations or identities as abnormal or deviant, often resulting in their stigmatization or persecution.
Disability "othering": This involves the portrayal of people with disabilities as weak or inferior, often resulting in their exclusion or marginalization.
Class "othering": This involves the portrayal of certain social classes as inferior or less deserving, often resulting in their marginalization or exclusion.

Examples of "Othering" in Literature and Media

The concept of "othering" can be seen in a wide range of literary and media texts. Some examples include:

The portrayal of Native Americans in Westerns: In many Westerns, Native Americans are depicted as savage, uncivilized, and inferior to white settlers.
The portrayal of women in science fiction: In many science fiction texts, women are depicted as weak, passive, and in need of rescue by male heroes.
The portrayal of people with disabilities in horror movies: In many horror movies, people with disabilities are depicted as vulnerable, weak, and in need of protection by able-bodied characters.
The portrayal of immigrants in news media: In many news stories, immigrants are depicted as a threat to national security, economic stability, and cultural identity.

The Consequences of "Othering"

The consequences of "othering" can be severe and far-reaching. Some of the most significant consequences include:

Marginalization and exclusion: When certain groups are portrayed as "other," they are often marginalized or excluded from mainstream society.
Stigmatization and persecution: When certain groups are portrayed as "other," they are often stigmatized or persecuted, leading to social and economic exclusion.
Loss of identity and self-esteem: When certain groups are portrayed as "other," they may experience a loss of identity and self-esteem, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and inadequacy.
Social and economic inequality: When certain groups are portrayed as "other," they may experience social and economic inequality, leading to poverty, unemployment, and poor health outcomes.

Conclusion

The concept of "othering" is a complex and multifaceted idea that has been explored in various fields, including literature, sociology, and psychology. At its core, "othering" refers to the process of creating a distinction between one's own group or identity and another group or identity, often resulting in the marginalization or exclusion of the latter. By understanding the concept of "othering" and its consequences, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society where all individuals are valued and respected.

References

Levinas, E. (1969). Totality and Infinity: An Essay on Exteriority. Pittsburgh: Duquesne University Press.
Fanon, F. (1952). Black Skin, White Masks. New York: Grove Press.
hooks, b. (1995). Killing Rage: Ending Racism. New York: Henry Holt and Company.
Butler, J. (1990). Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity. New York: Routledge.
Frequently Asked Questions About "Othering" =============================================

Q: What is the difference between "othering" and stereotyping?

A: While both "othering" and stereotyping involve the creation of a distinction between one's own group or identity and another group or identity, "othering" is a more complex and nuanced concept that involves the creation of a sense of distance, difference, and even hostility between groups. Stereotyping, on the other hand, involves the oversimplification or exaggeration of certain characteristics or traits associated with a particular group.

Q: Can "othering" be intentional or unintentional?

A: Yes, "othering" can be both intentional and unintentional. Intentional "othering" involves the deliberate creation of a distinction between one's own group or identity and another group or identity, often with the goal of marginalizing or excluding the latter. Unintentional "othering," on the other hand, involves the unintentional creation of a distinction between groups, often due to a lack of understanding or awareness of the impact of one's words or actions.

Q: How can "othering" be addressed in literature and media?

A: There are several ways to address "othering" in literature and media, including:

Increased representation: Including diverse characters and perspectives in literature and media can help to break down stereotypes and challenge "othering" narratives.
Critical analysis: Analyzing and critiquing "othering" narratives in literature and media can help to raise awareness of the impact of these narratives and promote more inclusive and equitable storytelling.
Diverse storytelling: Encouraging diverse storytelling and perspectives can help to create a more inclusive and equitable media landscape.

Q: What are some examples of "othering" in everyday life?

A: Some examples of "othering" in everyday life include:

Racial and ethnic profiling: Assuming that someone is a certain racial or ethnic group based on their appearance or behavior.
Sexist language: Using language that is derogatory or demeaning towards women or other marginalized groups.
Disability stigma: Assuming that someone with a disability is unable to participate in certain activities or is less capable than others.

Q: How can we challenge "othering" in our own lives?

A: There are several ways to challenge "othering" in our own lives, including:

Education and awareness: Learning about the impact of "othering" and how to challenge it can help to promote more inclusive and equitable behavior.
Active listening: Listening to and valuing the perspectives and experiences of others can help to break down stereotypes and challenge "othering" narratives.
Inclusive language: Using inclusive language and avoiding language that is derogatory or demeaning towards marginalized groups can help to promote a more inclusive and equitable environment.

Q: What are some resources for learning more about "othering"?

A: Some resources for learning more about "othering" include:

Books: "The Other: A History of the Other" by Emmanuel Levinas, "Black Skin, White Masks" by Frantz Fanon, and "The Souls of Black Folk" by W.E.B. Du Bois.
Documentaries: "The Color of Fear" and "The Invisible War".
Online courses: "Introduction to Sociology" and "Diversity and Inclusion" on Coursera.

Q: How can we promote more inclusive and equitable storytelling in literature and media?

A: There are several ways to promote more inclusive and equitable storytelling in literature and media, including:

Increased representation: Including diverse characters and perspectives in literature and media can help to break down stereotypes and challenge "othering" narratives.
Diverse storytelling: Encouraging diverse storytelling and perspectives can help to create a more inclusive and equitable media landscape.
Critical analysis: Analyzing and critiquing "othering" narratives in literature and media can help to raise awareness of the impact of these narratives and promote more inclusive and equitable storytelling.