Instrumentalized refers to the act of treating someone or something as a mere tool or means to achieve a specific end, often disregarding their inherent value or autonomy. It implies using a person, group, or concept in a self-serving or exploitative manner, manipulating them for personal gain, political advantage, or other ulterior motives. This can involve distorting information, exploiting vulnerabilities, or suppressing individual rights to achieve a desired outcome. It suggests a reduction of the subject to an object, devoid of intrinsic worth beyond its utility.
Instrumentalized meaning with examples
- The regime was accused of instrumentalizing the media, using it as a propaganda tool to spread misinformation and control public opinion, ultimately silencing dissent and consolidating power. This systematic exploitation eroded the public's trust in legitimate news outlets, making critical thinking difficult.
- The corporation instrumentalized its workers, demanding long hours and low pay while ignoring their safety concerns, prioritizing profit over employee welfare. Their primary goal was to use the workers as a source of cheap labor, pushing them to their limits and maximizing production.
- During the political campaign, the candidate instrumentalized the issue of national security, exploiting fear and prejudice to garner support, regardless of the truth. This manipulative strategy divided the electorate and diverted attention from more substantive debates.
- Some researchers warned about the dangers of instrumentalizing scientific findings, selectively using data to support pre-determined conclusions and influencing policy decisions. Scientific integrity was compromised when convenience trumped true objectivity.
- The artist felt their art was instrumentalized by the gallery owner, who focused solely on the commercial value of the paintings and ignored the artist's creative vision. The true purpose of the artistic vision was forgotten and lost for financial profit.