Decentering

Decentering refers to the act or process of shifting the focus, importance, or dominance away from a central entity, perspective, or power structure. It involves challenging established norms, hierarchies, or narratives that have historically privileged a particular group or viewpoint. This can manifest in various domains, including literature, philosophy, social sciences, and political discourse, and often aims to promote inclusivity, equity, and a more nuanced understanding of complex issues. The goal is to expose the limitations of a single, dominant perspective and create space for marginalized voices and alternative interpretations.

Decentering meaning with examples

• Postcolonial literature decenters the Eurocentric view of history and culture by giving voice to narratives from formerly colonized nations, revealing the impact of colonialism and challenging Western dominance.
• In art history, decentering often involves highlighting previously ignored artistic traditions from non-Western cultures, thereby broadening the scope of recognized artistic achievements and challenging Western art canons.
• Decentering the nuclear family in sociological studies involves exploring diverse family structures like single-parent households, same-sex couples, and extended family units, acknowledging their validity and complexity.
• By decentering the traditional male gaze, feminist film theory analyzes how women are portrayed in media, critiquing objectification and empowering female characters and creators.
• Many activists are currently decentering whiteness to focus on other marginalized communities, especially by promoting inclusivity and challenging white-centered narratives and power structures to achieve broader societal change.