Hate

Hate is an intense feeling of rejection, disgust and hostility directed at a person, group, idea or thing. It is described as stronger and more enduring than anger (xanaaqa), which typically arises suddenly and subsides quickly. Hatred is usually accompanied by a desire to distance, harm or destroy the object of that hatred.

The term is used in two ways: personally, concerning the relationship between two individuals, and socially, concerning conflict between groups distinguished by nationality, religion, language, gender or culture. The second category is where governments and international bodies apply regulations to prevent the incitement of hatred.

Characteristics of the emotion

Psychology distinguishes hate from anger and mild dislike (karaahiyo) on three grounds: it persists over a long period, it is directed at the person as a whole and not at a specific action, and it leads to the judgment that the person is fundamentally bad. When hatred intensifies, the person who is hated comes to be seen as lacking full human qualities—a process termed 'dehumanization'.

Collective hatred

Collective hatred rests on a division of 'us' and 'them'. Historical narratives, media and political leadership sometimes use it to generate fear or to blame a particular group for social problems. Scholars of violence regularly note that the spread and incitement of hatred often precedes large-scale violence, preparing populations to accept harsh measures.

Hate speech and law

Hate speech is speech that attacks or incites hostility toward a group recognized by a fundamental characteristic. Many countries have prohibited the incitement of violence against groups, while others emphasize protection of freedom of speech, resulting in significant legal divergence. The role of social media platforms and their algorithmic distribution of content that provokes emotion has updated the debate.

Reduction

Methods to reduce hate include direct contact between different groups on equal terms, education about history and false doctrines, and social reconciliation following conflict. Outcomes depend on how the process is managed; poorly organized contact can sometimes entrench positions.