Definitions: Otherness is the result of a discursive process by which a dominant in-group (“Us,” the Self) constructs one or many dominated out-groups (“Them,” Other) by stigmatizing a difference – real or imagined – presented as a negation of identity and thus a motive for potential discrimination.
What is the concept of otherness?
A dictionary’s not any aid.
It seems it’s a discursive process,
Them and us, where we’re ‘them’ I’m afraid,
And what the hell is discursive?
It’s not a word that I’ve ever used.
It is rambling, pleonastic and circuitous
Weird words just to keep us amused?
Otherness is a room full of people
All turning their backs on the one
It’s not that I’m strange or unfriendly
I’m like them, when it’s all said and done
It’s not that I’m different from others,
Who see only what they wish to see.
Being ‘other’ is not even lonely.
Being ‘other’ is just being me.
So, otherness might have a meaning
Something we all are possessing
It’s the art of being just different
Being ‘other’ can be such a blessing.
If you like what you read, treat me to a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/josephiu
Thank you.
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So clever and brilliantly written, Joseph, and I think the image fits perfectly. I will add your link to next week’s wrap-up.
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Hi Eugi, thank you so much.
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You’re welcome, Joseph.
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