7 simple tips for practicing social deconstruction

Deconstruction is a phenomenon that is increasingly present in society. However, it is a great challenge to look at the world, understand and embrace its diversity. The philosopher Ana Martins explains that it takes a lot of dedication to deconstruct oneself in a really positive way. Below, she checks out some tips to go through this process in a more peaceful way.

What is deconstruction?

The idea of ​​deconstruction is about breaking historically constructed ‘truths’ and not sticking to pre-established concepts, listening to people with other non-hegemonic places of speech. According to the article “What is deconstruction”, published by Dr. in History José Carlos Vasconcelos, the philosopher Jacques Derrida argues that it cannot be understood as a concept or method. That’s because people might not understand the novelties of deconstructionist thinking if they were stuck with a concept.

According to Ana Martins, a master’s student in philosophy at PUCPR, social deconstruction is a subject that is gaining visibility in social networks, institutions and even in circles of friends. However, going through this process is not easy and requires a lot of critical thinking. People must be aware of structural prejudices, that is, those that are rooted in society and are often reproduced automatically, hurting the existence of some minority group.

How to do the deconstruction process

To deconstruct is to have a new look at existing realities and discover that plurality is rich, beautiful and incredible. With the philosopher Ana’s tips, in addition to understanding this process, you will be able to practice deconstruction and reconstruction in search of a more just society.

constant reflection

The act of reflecting on prejudices that people tend to have and reproducing helps in the process of deconstruction. Making mistakes is something common for everyone, but when people start to reflect on their actions, the possibility of error decreases a lot.

No judgement

Avoid as much as possible making any kind of judgment about people or situations, even if you have already gone through a similar reality. Each person is unique and reacts differently. In this way, any kind of judgment becomes harmful to people.

Analyze your own behavior

It is important to analyze your own attitudes and speeches, especially when someone indicates that such attitude or speech is being prejudiced. Deconstruction is linked to the way people behave in the face of routine situations, and making this type of assessment is essential to instituting positive changes.

seek adequate knowledge

Seeking knowledge about social and political causes, as well as rooted social prejudices, helps to better understand social reality and its characteristics. Knowledge is essential for understanding and changing behaviors that may be bothering you. It is also important to remember that this update needs to be constant and that it is always possible to learn more about any subject.

Empathy is the key

Many people talk about empathy, but unfortunately, few put it into practice Having empathy (putting yourself in the other’s shoes) can help in the deconstruction process, as this skill helps to understand a little more about the other’s reality. An empathetic look can make all the difference to those who are deconstructing themselves.

Recognize inappropriate behavior

It takes wisdom to recognize that a certain attitude and/or speech must be rethought. If you’ve already engaged in harmful or inappropriate behavior, you can rethink the situation itself and stop repeating past mistakes.

Attitude

You have to have an attitude to change, not be afraid or ashamed of deconstructing yourself. Deconstruction is positive and, most of the time, necessary for society. Like anything new, it can feel like a challenge, something very difficult to accomplish. Therefore, it is necessary to have the attitude of defending that new way of expressing and behaving.

Overcoming stereotypes and prejudices helps to create a fairer and healthier society. Deconstruction needs to be seen as a constant exercise that reflects in your speech, positioning and actions.

Learn more about social deconstruction

Deconstructing yourself is something necessary and you can also start to reflect on your own reality and start changing what bothers you. Here are some videos with tips on how to practice deconstruction.

Deconstruction is movement

This video addresses the philosophical side of social deconstruction as a human characteristic. Although it is difficult to let go of old habits or concepts, life is dynamic and always in motion. Some people tend to reject different ideas, but human beings are naturally changeable and always changing.

Social stigmas that need to be deconstructed

Stigmata are negative, as they bring an anticipated idea about something, without worrying about what is actually behind that reality. See in this video 7 examples of social stigmas that need to be deconstructed and that unfortunately are still very common in our society.

Deconstruction is reception

This video shows a little about deconstruction in an internal way, focusing on the individual himself. Many people, when feeling labeled, need to go through the process of deconstruction in order to find themselves or discover themselves. Identifying and recognizing one’s own history is essential for the deconstruction process.

The unending deconstruction

Deconstruction is really a constant phenomenon, always on the move just like the human being. It will never end, because it is always possible to see a reality differently. In this video you will see a personal experience, linked to a social reality that includes demographic prejudices.

deconstruction and art

Finally, check out a poem about deconstruction. In addition to highlighting various social prejudices, the poet Débora Garcia, through her verses, deconstructs the elitist and sexist vision that prevails in society.

Searching for information on deconstruction is the first step to abandoning harmful and outdated habits. Building an equitable society is a positive thing for everyone. Also read about gender inequality, how it manifests itself and what you can do to tackle it.