'Othering': The Childhood Behavior That Fuels Authoritarianism

Opinion

The search for a scapegoat is the easiest of all hunting expeditions. - Dwight D. Eisenhower

Authoritarian regimes thrive on "othering," a strategy that involves identifying and scapegoating specific groups to foster division, suppress dissent, and consolidate power. By rallying public fear and animosity against perceived enemies, these regimes distract from their failures and maintain control. While the scale and consequences of this behavior are alarming, its roots are surprisingly familiar, echoing the social dynamics often seen in childhood.

‘‘Authoritarian regimes exploit "othering," a tactic rooted in childhood social dynamics like scapegoating and exclusion. By fostering division and fear, they deflect blame, silence dissent, and maintain control. Understanding this shared behavior is key to dismantling systems of oppression and promoting unity.’’

From schoolyard cliques to government propaganda, the practice of "othering" taps into deeply ingrained human tendencies. Recognizing these parallels sheds light on how division is nurtured and perpetuated and how it can be dismantled.

Childhood "Othering": A Microcosm of Division

Yes, children often use a form of "othering" in social dynamics, particularly in group settings like school. This can manifest as scapegoating, exclusion, or forming cliques, where someone is labeled as "different" or "wrong" to reinforce group identity or deflect blame. While less calculated than in authoritarian regimes, the underlying behavior—leveraging division to gain control or avoid responsibility—shares similarities. This highlights how early social experiences can reflect broader human tendencies that are later exploited in more structured ways by powerful systems or leaders.

Picture a typical schoolyard: a group of children forms a tight-knit clique, united by shared interests or a desire for belonging. To solidify their bond, they exclude others, targeting classmates deemed "weird" or "different." A child who struggles academically or comes from a different cultural background might be scapegoated for a group’s collective frustrations, deflecting attention from their own insecurities. In this way, "othering" becomes a tool for asserting dominance and avoiding accountability.

While such behavior may seem benign or fleeting, it lays a foundation for more pervasive divisions later in life. The instinct to protect in-group identity by marginalizing outsiders is not left behind in childhood—it evolves, taking on new forms in adult social structures and political systems.

Authoritarian "Othering": Division on a Grand Scale

Authoritarian regimes amplify and exploit these basic social instincts to maintain power. Leaders identify vulnerable groups—ethnic minorities, political dissidents, or marginalized communities—and paint them as threats to national security, cultural purity, or economic stability. By doing so, they redirect public frustration away from systemic failures and toward a convenient scapegoat.

This tactic serves multiple purposes. It fosters fear and loyalty among the majority, uniting them against a perceived common enemy. It also suppresses dissent, as those who challenge the regime risk being labeled as part of the "other." In some cases, this division leads to widespread violence, as seen in genocides like those in Rwanda or Nazi Germany, where propaganda dehumanized targeted groups to justify their persecution.

More recently, modern authoritarian leaders have relied on similar strategies. In Russia, Vladimir Putin has frequently framed LGBTQ+ communities and political dissidents as threats to "traditional values." In Myanmar, the military regime incited hatred against the Rohingya Muslim minority, leading to mass displacement and violence. These examples illustrate how "othering" operates as a tool of control, obscuring systemic failures while tightening the regime's grip on power.

The Psychological Appeal of "Othering"

Why does "othering" resonate so strongly, whether on a playground or a national stage? The answer lies in human psychology. People have an innate desire for belonging, and group identity provides security and purpose. However, defining who is "in" also requires defining who is "out." Exclusion becomes a way to reinforce the boundaries of identity.

Moreover, fear is a powerful motivator. Authoritarian regimes manipulate fear of the "other" to stoke tribalism and suppress critical thinking. A frightened population is less likely to question authority or demand accountability, making "othering" an ideal strategy for oppressive leaders.

These psychological dynamics explain why "othering" persists across cultures and contexts. It is a shortcut to control, whether wielded by children seeking social dominance or governments seeking absolute power.

The Costs of Division

The consequences of "othering" are profound. For children, being excluded or scapegoated can lead to long-term psychological harm, including low self-esteem, anxiety, and difficulty forming relationships. In society, the stakes are even higher. Institutionalized "othering" leads to systemic inequality, eroded trust, and cycles of violence. Divisions fostered by authoritarian regimes often outlast the regimes themselves, leaving scars that take generations to heal.

At its core, "othering" undermines the potential for unity and shared progress. When societies are fractured by fear and hatred, addressing collective challenges—such as climate change, economic inequality, or public health crises—becomes nearly impossible.

Breaking the Cycle

To dismantle "othering," we must address its roots and manifestations at every level. Education plays a key role. By teaching children empathy, inclusivity, and conflict resolution, we can counteract the instinct to marginalize others. Schools should encourage collaboration and celebrate diversity, creating environments where differences are seen as strengths rather than threats.

For adults, media literacy is essential. Recognizing and challenging divisive rhetoric can prevent the spread of fear-based propaganda. Supporting leaders and policies that prioritize unity and equality over division is equally important.

Finally, fostering dialogue between groups—whether divided by politics, religion, or culture—can build bridges and reduce mistrust. Understanding others as individuals, rather than stereotypes, is a powerful antidote to "othering."

Conclusion

From the playground to the halls of power, "othering" is a pervasive force that divides and destabilizes. While its manifestations differ in scale and severity, the underlying dynamics remain consistent. By addressing the psychological and social roots of this behavior, we can begin to dismantle the divisions that authoritarian regimes exploit and build societies grounded in inclusion, empathy, and shared purpose.

In the end, rejecting "othering" is not just a political choice—it is a moral imperative, one that begins with the simple act of seeing the humanity in others. Whether in childhood or adulthood, the antidote to division lies in connection and understanding.

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