The Psychology of Dehumanization and Moral Disengagement

Why do ordinary people justify cruelty they would otherwise condemn? In this episode, Professor RJ Starr examines the psychology of dehumanization and moral disengagement—the processes that strip others of empathy and silence our conscience. Drawing on social psychology, history, and modern life, Starr explores how propaganda, language, humor, and group identity make it easier to rationalize harm. From euphemistic labels like “collateral damage” to online mob behavior, we uncover the subtle ways cruelty is excused and normalized. The costs are profound, eroding trust, compassion, and moral sensitivity. But there are paths forward: recognizing the mechanisms in ourselves, challenging the language that disguises harm, and choosing empathy in ordinary moments. Understanding these dynamics is essential if we want to resist cycles of cruelty and rehumanize the way we see one another.