Compression

When we think of compression, it’s usually about taking something bigger and making it smaller or applying pressure in the medical sense. Compressing computer files. Compression socks. A compress mask (mmm, that sounds nice right about now). A garbage compressor (or compactor).

But…there’s another use of the word compression that circulates in political, social, religious, national, and other group-related circles.

In the academic world, it’s called “stereotypical flattening” and “out-group homogeneity.” Those are some mighty big and fancy words, so let’s simplify it.

Basically, the idea behind compression (or stereotypical flattening) is to turn an entire group of people into a monolith that is defined by one or two attributes. Compression happens based on religion, gender, political beliefs, culture, age, etc.

The “out-group homogeneity” idea is even more insidiously powerful because there is perceived individualism within the group to which the person doing the compressing belongs. For example, Republicans believe they all have different values, interests, and life dreams – but Democrats are all the same. And the same goes for Democrats’ view of Republicans.

The “in group” praises itself for its diversity of beliefs, thoughts, ideas and lifestyles while compressing groups outside their world view into a single, monolithic descriptor. Political parties throughout history and across the globe have done this (and continue to do it) on a regular basis. It serves to create division between groups rather than unity. Citizens argue with each other rather than holding elected leaders accountable (or any place where structures of power exist). 

Here’s the thing. It’s easy to see when others are doing it. 😁 It’s not always easy to see when we’re doing it. It’s actually a really easy trap to fall into. Hell, it can feel emotionally gratifying to dismiss an entire group of people that we think don’t share our beliefs and values. We can feel righteous and vindicated. Believe me, I know.

But the intended purpose of compression (or stereotypical flattening or out-group homogeneity) is to remove the humanity of the other group. It’s a strategic tool to divide and conquer. If we dehumanize groups of people we think all share a single attribute, there is no guilt involved, no shame, no opportunity for connection, no opportunity to be human together.

And oftentimes, compression happens in small doses, in little snippets, in bite-size chunks. We sort of do it without even realizing we are doing it. But every time we do it, our ability to compress (or stereotype) gets easier and easier. Especially if our “in” group validates our thoughts and ideas – becomes part of our echo chamber. It simply becomes a normal part of our everyday life.

But I say let’s de-compress (see what I did there? 😆 ) and see the humanity in each and every one of us. Celebrate who we are as individuals and people.

Until next week.

Andy

(All written content created the old-fashioned way.)