Hypernormalization
About
Hypernormalization is a logical fallacy of the general form:
- All members of group X have attribute Y.
- Having attribute Y is an essential part of the nature of group X.
- Person Z is a member of group X.
- 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 (a point which is generally not in contention) or else the rule expressed in points 1 and 2 is actually false.
In other words,hypernormalization is the stigmatization of perceived abnormality: any personal attribute which does not fit within the observer's idea of reality indicates a flaw in the observed person, rather than a flaw in a rule believed by the observer.
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 1 by the fear of being ostracized, while non-members will feel more free to repeat rule 1 as fact and ostracize members of group X who do not display attribute Y.
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.)