There are many problems, dilemmas and issues which begin with perceptions and definitions. This becomes clear, for example, when a group is portrayed as being excluded from society. It is a logic that may be dangerous yet in reality, it represents pure discrimination or selective racism.
It is this selection, and this exclusion, that is the problem. The question arises: Why is that group selected and considered the exception rather than others? Why are specific persons, objects, or topics, uniquely, removed from their contexts, while other elements are not subjected to the same?
In this regard, we may deduce that the incorrect or distorted interpretation, despite being a gross breach, is in fact only a secondary problem. The fundamental problem lies right at the beginning, in the fact of selection and exclusion. It is customary that multiple interpretations exist, as issues are typically open to diverse understandings that may be correct, incorrect, or something of both. However, making a specific part the focus of interpretations while ignoring the other parts is the intractable problem that has consequences.
The interpretation has its consequences and repercussions. Those individuals being excluded find themselves quite easily in the firing line. In simple terms, the process of demonisation and dehumanisation directed against specific persons, cultures or religions is intimately linked to the definition (and projection) of those persons, or those cultures and religions, as an “exception”. In this way, providing justification for the denial of rights and liberties that are fundamentally universal.
It follows then that those who have been excluded must then be subjected to special measures, and so, the situation easily escalates to a third level. At this level, negative developments and repercussions arise, and take the form of measures and implementations, or even legislation; laws that are directed specifically at particular sections of society, or a specific class or constituents within the wider scene in society.
The person interprets “others” as being the exception, and thus opens the door to exclusion. The interpretation as exceptions is fertile ground for feverish misrepresentation. In this regard, the climate prevailing among the public may possibly develop, under specific conditions, to the point of fomenting hate, and spreading malice. In such cases, there is a typical rediscovery of the old stereotypes, and a recall of those distasteful images ingrained in collective memory, which are then revived to take on new old forms. The matter then further escalates, sometimes quite spontaneously, to the level of action. This actually occurred, in 21st century Europe.
Therefore, there is a cumulative relationship binding these three levels: interpretation as exception, then distortion and misrepresentation, followed by the adoption of measures, invoking a special but negative status, or enforcing exclusions in the area of rights and liberties.
Populists and alarmists are quite skilled, or indeed experts, on the matter of interpretation; they begin by invoking interpretations of exception; after which, they practice distortion and misrepresentation, followed by rallying to the ballot box, at the expense of universal rights and fundamental values, which are meant to be assured for everyone.
The victims are not just those persons directly targeted, but include the fundamental values of society; thus, everyone in society is a victim. The whole of society loses when discrimination is legitimised, because it damages and undermines the fundamental values of a democratic society.
In response, citizens, and their partners in society, must act early; one who acts late loses. This not only relates to the importance of a show of solidarity between the various sectors of society, or the value of adopting brave stances, but the necessity of defending fundamental values. Sadly, this aspect remains neglected in the debate on values witnessed in a number of European countries over the years.
The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor.