anthropomorphism

/,ænθrəpə'mɔ:fizm/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Noun:
    • The attribution of human characteristics or behavior to a god, animal, or object: The act of describing or thinking of non-human entities as if they possess human qualities, emotions, or intentions.
Usage
  • General Use: The term is used in literature, religion, philosophy, and everyday language to describe the human tendency to interpret non-human things in human terms.
  • Academic Use: In theology, it refers to conceiving of deities in human form. In literary criticism, it is a common technique in fables and allegories.
Examples
  • Noun:
    • The ancient myths are full of anthropomorphism, with gods displaying jealousy, love, and anger.
    • Describing a storm as "angry" or a cat as "plotting" something are simple forms of anthropomorphism.
    • Some critics argue that attributing consciousness to advanced AI is a modern form of anthropomorphism.
Advanced Usage
  • "Literary anthropomorphism": The deliberate use of this technique in stories, such as in by George Orwell or in many animated films.
    • The novel's power comes from its skillful anthropomorphism, allowing the toys to express very human fears and joys.
  • "Theological anthropomorphism": The depiction of a divine being with human physical form or psychological traits.
    • Debates about theological anthropomorphism often center on whether sacred texts should be interpreted literally or metaphorically.
Variants and Related Words
  • Anthropomorphic (adj): Having or described as having human form or attributes.
    • The cartoon features anthropomorphic animals who wear clothes and drive cars.
  • Anthropomorphize (verb): To attribute human characteristics to something non-human.
    • It is natural for children to anthropomorphize their stuffed toys.
Synonyms
  • Personification: The attribution of a personal nature or human characteristics to something non-human. (Note: In literary analysis, "personification" is often a specific figure of speech, while "anthropomorphism" can be a broader conceptual approach.)
  • Humanization: The process of making something seem human.
Antonyms
  • Dehumanization: The process of depriving a person or group of positive human qualities.
  • Objectification: The treatment of a person as an object or thing.
Noun
  1. the representation of objects (especially a god) as having human form or traits

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