Hypernormalization
About
Hypernormalization is a logical fallacy about normality. It takes the general form:
- A. All members of group X have attribute Y.
- B. Having attribute Y is an essential part of the nature of group X.
- C. Person Z is a member of group X.
- D. If person Z does not have attribute Y, this indicates that person Z is damaged or flawed in some critical way.
The logical fallacy lies in the fact that if person Z does not have attribute Y, this is proof that either they are not actually a member of group X or else the rule expressed in points A and B is actually false.
In other words,hypernormalization is the stigmatization of perceived abnormality: any personal attribute which does not fit within the observer's framing of what is acceptable is positioned as indicating a flaw in the observed person, rather than a (possible) flaw in the observer's understanding.
Usage
Hypernormalization arguments are used to enforce behavior or rules desired by the speaker. Members of group X will be motivated to conform with rule A by the fear of being ostracized, while non-members will feel more free to repeat rule A as fact and ostracize members of group X who do not display attribute Y.
One of the most frequent uses of hypernormalization is in the social enforcement of gender roles and gender essentialism.
Related
- Hypernormalization is a form of overgeneralization.
- Hypernormalization is a form of emotional argument. (If the listener is a member of group X, then it may activate their sense of insecurity; if the listener is not a member of group X, then it may activate a rewarding feeling of superiority.)