Humanising

Humanising describes the act or process of making something more human or relatable, particularly when it involves adding qualities, characteristics, or experiences associated with human beings to something that isn't inherently human. This could be applied to animals, abstract concepts, technology, or even processes. It often involves imbuing things with empathy, emotion, or understanding, thereby fostering connection and promoting a deeper sense of value and appreciation. The goal is to foster a more humane and compassionate perspective. This process can lead to more ethical treatment, improved understanding, and increased engagement with the subject in question, and sometimes it involves simplification. The process can often highlight complexities.

Humanising meaning with examples

• The artist sought to humanise the robotic figures in his paintings, giving them subtle expressions that evoked empathy. This technique aimed to create a more relatable and thought-provoking experience for the viewers, forcing them to reflect on their own humanity.
• The writer chose to humanise the alien characters in the science fiction novel by giving them relatable motivations and internal conflicts. By showcasing their fears and aspirations, she made the story more compelling and accessible to the audience.
• Through documentaries, conservationists are humanising the plight of endangered species by highlighting their individual personalities and their vulnerability to external threats. This builds emotional connections that promote conservation efforts.
• The company tried to humanise its customer service experience by implementing more personal communication strategies, such as using a representative's name and offering tailored solutions. This approach greatly increased customer satisfaction.
• The curriculum's designers attempted to humanise the study of history by focusing on individual stories of ordinary people during pivotal historical events. This change brought the past alive, fostering a greater understanding of the impact of major events.