Why We Hate

By: Fischer A., Halperin E., Canetti D., Jasini A.
Published in: Emotion Review
SDGs : SDG 16  |  Units: Social Sciences  | Time: 2018 |  Link
Description: We offer a functional perspective on hate, showing that hate has a unique pattern of appraisals and action tendencies. H ate is based on perceptions of a stable, negative disposition of persons or groups. We hate persons and groups more because of who they are, than because of what they do. Hate has the goal to eliminate its target. Hate is especially significant at the intergroup level, where it turns already devalued groups into victims of hate. When shared among group members, hate can spread fast in conflict zones where people are exposed to hate-based violence, which further feeds their hate. Hate can be reassuring and self-protective, because its message is simple and helps confirming people’s belief in a just world. © The Author(s) 2018.