Cultural Violence

Cultural violence refers to aspects of cultural beliefs, norms, and practices that can justify or legitimize direct or structural violence. It includes the ideas, symbols, and language that can dehumanize certain groups or promote inequality, making violence seem acceptable or normal. Examples include stereotypes, cultural myths, and religious dogmas that reinforce discrimination or conflict. By embedding harmful ideologies in society, cultural violence creates an environment where physical and structural violence can occur more freely, often without criticism, shaping attitudes and behaviors in ways that perpetuate harm.