Otherness

Otherness refers to the state or quality of being different or alien, emphasizing a sense of separation from the familiar or the norm. It describes the condition of being perceived as not belonging, as distinct, or as outside the mainstream. This can stem from differences in culture, race, religion, sexual orientation, ability, or any characteristic that deviates from the perceived dominant group or societal standard. It often entails feelings of marginalization, exclusion, or misunderstanding, and can be both a source of vulnerability and a source of unique perspective.

Otherness meaning with examples

• Growing up as a first-generation immigrant, Sarah constantly felt the weight of otherness. Her accent, customs, and family traditions set her apart in her school and community, creating a persistent sense of disconnect. This daily experience of not quite fitting in made her feel isolated, though it also fostered a strong sense of identity and resilience.
• The film explored the otherness of the protagonist, a non-verbal autistic individual, showcasing his unique perspective and the challenges he faced navigating a world not designed for him. The story aimed to humanize and understand those on the spectrum and break down assumptions of what it meant to be human.
• Many Indigenous communities have long experienced otherness in the form of cultural appropriation and the imposition of foreign laws. This loss of sovereignty contributed to feelings of inequality and being sidelined by larger society which causes the cultural identity to erode and create a great divide.
• The gothic novel masterfully utilized a sense of otherness by portraying the protagonist in a distant and mysterious castle, haunted by strange events that made them question their own sanity. The setting enhanced the feeling of alienation and unease, which fed into the overall atmosphere of suspense and horror.
• Scientific breakthroughs are often hampered by resistance that stems from the feeling of otherness towards any novel idea. A different way of thought often requires that ideas are separated from common thought which may lead to a feeling of alienation.