Introduction
Nelson Mandela, the former President of South Africa, was a prominent leader in the fight against apartheid. He believed that both the oppressor and the oppressed are robbed of their humanity in a system of oppression. This statement has significant implications for understanding the nature of oppression and its effects on individuals and society as a whole.

Oppression and Dehumanization
Oppression is a system of power that operates through the use of force, coercion, and violence to maintain control over a particular group of people. The oppressed are those who are subjected to this system and are denied their basic rights and freedoms. However, the oppressor also suffers from the effects of oppression.

The Effects of Oppression on the Oppressed
The oppressed are denied their basic human rights and freedoms, and as a result, they become dehumanized. They are treated as objects rather than individuals and are stripped of their dignity and self-respect. They are denied access to education, healthcare, and basic necessities, and they are often subjected to violence, discrimination, and abuse.

The Effects of Oppression on the Oppressor
The oppressor also suffers from the effects of oppression. They become desensitized to the suffering of others, and they lose their sense of empathy and compassion. They are forced to adopt a mentality of superiority and dominance, which leads to a dehumanization of themselves. They become disconnected from their own humanity and the humanity of others, and they are unable to see the harm that they are causing.

The Need for Empathy and Compassion
In order to break the cycle of oppression, there is a need for empathy and compassion. Both the oppressor and the oppressed need to be able to see the humanity in each other. This requires a willingness to listen, to understand, and to recognize the experiences of others. It requires a recognition of the harm that has been done and a commitment to work towards healing and reconciliation.

Conclusion
Nelson Mandela's statement that both the oppressor and the oppressed are robbed of their humanity highlights the destructive effects of oppression on both individuals and society as a whole. It emphasizes the need for empathy and compassion as a means of breaking the cycle of oppression and restoring dignity and humanity to all people.