"The Use of Force" and Other Stories Glossary

"The Use of Force" and Other Stories Glossary

Ambivalence

The coexistence of opposing emotions or attitudes.

Sadism

The derivation of pleasure from inflicting pain or exerting control.

Dehumanization

Stripping a person of individuality or humanity.

Psychosexual

Subtle implications of sexuality within power dynamics.

Complicity

Involvement in wrongdoing.

Catharsis

An emotional release.

Objectification

Reducing someone to an object or tool.

Diphtheria

A highly contagious and potentially deadly bacterial infection.

Compulsion

Forcing someone to act against their will.

Freud’s Id and Superego

From Freudian psychology: the id represents primal urges, while the superego upholds moral values.

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