answersLogoWhite

0

What is scapegoat theory?

Updated: 4/30/2024
User Avatar

Wiki User

9y ago

Best Answer

A scapegoat is a person or group made to bear the blame for others or to suffer in their place.

It can also mean to blame someone (individual, group, race) for something they have not done, as with Hitler blaming the Jews for losing World War I, using that to gain support and give people a reason for hating them.

The origin of the term is the Hebrew ritual practice of releasing a goat into the wilderness (to die) on the Day of Atonement. In early civilizations such as Greece, the practice used beggars or criminals to carry off evil spirits or to appease the gods.

User Avatar

Wiki User

11y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar
More answers
User Avatar

AnswerBot

2w ago

Scapegoat theory is a social psychological concept that explains how individuals or groups are blamed for the faults or problems of others, serving as a target for displaced aggression. It often involves projecting one's frustrations, fears, or insecurities onto a target to deflect responsibility or protect one's self-esteem. This can lead to unjust treatment and discrimination against the scapegoated individual or group.

This answer is:
User Avatar

User Avatar

Wiki User

9y ago

Scapegoating is the term used for the convenient placing of blame against another (often innocent) party to obfuscate and distract from other problems. In sociology scapegoat theory involves placing such blame on others during periods of economic weakness.

This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What is scapegoat theory?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Continue Learning about Sociology

Scapegoat theory states that prejudice is created by?

blaming an out-group for societal problems or personal issues. This theory suggests that individuals or groups are unfairly singled out and held responsible for things that are beyond their control, leading to the justification of discrimination and negative attitudes towards them.


What was The first social theory of aging?

The first social theory of aging is the Disengagement Theory, proposed by Elaine Cumming and William Henry in 1961. The theory suggests that as people age, they naturally withdraw or disengage from society, leading to mutual separation between the older individual and their social roles.


Social conflict theory is also called?

Social conflict theory is also called conflict theory or critical theory. It emphasizes the role of power, inequality, and oppression in shaping social relationships and institutions.


What are the four main theories of socialization?

The four main theories of socialization are psychoanalytic theory, cognitive development theory, social learning theory, and symbolic interaction theory. Each theory focuses on different aspects of how individuals develop their sense of self and acquire the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to function in society.


Is social conflict theory and conflict theory the same theory?

Yes, social conflict theory and conflict theory refer to the same theoretical perspective that highlights power struggles and inequalities within society as the root causes of social problems. Social conflict theory examines how various social groups compete for resources and power, leading to conflict and change within societies.

Related questions

Which theory might explain why people blame immigrant for the country troubles .?

scapegoat theory


What are the six most common theories of Anti-Semitism?

economic, chosen people, scapegoat, deicide, outsiders, and racial theory


Washington state university lost its football game against Notre Dame in overtime, when the kicker missed?

Scapegoat theory


What is someone who takes the blame of misdoings of others called?

Such a person is a scapegoat.


Scapegoat theory states that prejudice is created by?

blaming an out-group for societal problems or personal issues. This theory suggests that individuals or groups are unfairly singled out and held responsible for things that are beyond their control, leading to the justification of discrimination and negative attitudes towards them.


How do you use word scapegoat?

He is your scapegoat. They have a scapegoating problem.


Which of these theories best explains why in difficult economic times some people blame groups or individuals with little or no political power?

scapegoat theory - Apex


When was Scapegoat Wilderness created?

Scapegoat Wilderness was created in 1972.


When was Scapegoat - band - created?

Scapegoat - band - was created in 1999.


When was The Scapegoat - novel - created?

The Scapegoat - novel - was created in 1957.


Short sentence for scapegoat?

A scapegoat is someone who is unfairly blamed or punished for the mistakes or wrongdoing of others.


What actors and actresses appeared in The Scapegoat - 1912?

The cast of The Scapegoat - 1912 includes: Tom Mix as Tom Mason, the Scapegoat