Scapegoating is the act of blaming others for one’s shortcomings. It can occur on an individual level or be directed at entire groups. Examining scapegoating is important because it affects both relationships and society at large, carrying social and economic consequences. When hate or corruption influences decision-making, the outcomes are generally poor. It is difficult to achieve peak performance if only part of a society’s human capital is engaged.
Society functions best when people share common values and see one another as equals. Sometimes these values are codified in social contracts, artifacts, or oaths. However, when people are dehumanized or when systems protect blatant mistreatment, society might continue to just limp along. Encouraging a shared sense of identity and purpose helps draw in broader social and economic participation.
Consider the piece below. You will notice that some individuals and groups are mistreated, and these injustices reverberate through decisions and institutional outcomes. A society thrives when those who view all people as part of the same human family are elevated—these tend to be the “best and brightest.” Conversely, division weakens institutions and diminishes collective potential.
Scapegoating of ethnic minorities: Experimental evidence
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