Less Than Human

Less Than Human examines the psychology and history of dehumanization, exploring how humans perceive and categorize other groups as subhuman. The book draws from philosophy, psychology, anthropology and history to analyze the mental processes that enable people to deny others their full humanity. Smith investigates historical cases of dehumanization, from ancient civilizations through modern genocides, showing how these attitudes enabled atrocities. The text examines propaganda, language, and cultural narratives that have been used to classify certain groups as less than fully human. The work incorporates research on cognitive psychology and evolutionary biology to explain the roots of dehumanizing behavior in human nature. Through scientific studies and historical evidence, it demonstrates how the human mind creates categories and hierarchies that can lead to moral exclusion. This multidisciplinary analysis reveals fundamental patterns in how societies justify violence and cruelty through the denial of others' humanity. The book raises essential questions about human nature and our capacity for both brutality and moral progress.

Readers appreciate Smith's extensive research into the psychology of dehumanization and his analysis of historical examples. Many note the book helped them understand how societies justify violence and genocide. The philosophical and scientific explanations resonated with readers trying to make sense of modern conflicts and discrimination. Criticisms focus on the academic writing style, which some found dry and repetitive. Several readers wanted more solutions or preventive measures rather than just analysis. Some felt the examples and case studies became overwhelming. "Makes you examine your own biases" - Goodreads reviewer "Too theoretical, needed more practical applications" - Amazon reviewer Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (180+ ratings) LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (40+ ratings) The most common rating across platforms is 4 stars, with readers calling it informative but dense. Academic readers rate it higher than general readers.

The War Against the Jews by Lucy Dawidowicz An examination of the psychological and social mechanisms that enabled the Nazi regime to dehumanize Jewish people and perpetrate genocide.

Faces of the Enemy by Sam Keen The book reveals how propaganda and psychological tactics transform people into enemies through dehumanization across cultures and time periods.

The Better Angels of Our Nature by Steven Pinker A study of human violence throughout history explores the psychological and social factors that drive people to view others as less than human.

Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl A Holocaust survivor's firsthand account illustrates the impact of dehumanization on both perpetrators and victims in concentration camps.

Ordinary Men by Christopher Browning The transformation of average German police officers into mass murderers demonstrates how normal people can be conditioned to dehumanize and kill others.

🔹 The author, David Livingstone Smith, was inspired to write this book after discovering that his grandmother's entire family was murdered in the Holocaust. 🔹 The term "dehumanization" was not widely used until the 1920s, despite the practice being ancient. It first appeared in print in connection with industrialization and factory work. 🔹 Studies cited in the book show that when people view photos of homeless individuals, their brains show less activity in areas associated with social cognition than when viewing photos of other people. 🔹 The book won the 2012 Anisfield-Wolf Book Award for Nonfiction, which specifically recognizes works that contribute to understanding racism and diversity. 🔹 Smith draws parallels between how ancient Romans viewed "barbarians" and how Nazi propaganda portrayed Jews, demonstrating that dehumanization techniques have remained remarkably consistent throughout history.