Mandela said that a man who takes away another man’s freedom is a prisoner of hatred because he himself is a victim of prejudice and narrowmindedness. He justified it by saying thought a man is not free if his freedom is taken away from him. Likewise, if he is taking away someone else’s freedom, he is not truly free.

Nelson Mandela on Humanity and Oppression

Nelson Mandela, the former president of South Africa, believed that oppression affected both the oppressor and the oppressed by robbing them of their humanity. This statement has profound implications for understanding the nature of oppression and its impact on individuals and society.

Oppression and Dehumanization

Oppression is a form of systematic injustice that involves the use of power to subjugate and exploit individuals or groups who are perceived as inferior or different. This can take many forms, such as racism, sexism, classism, homophobia, and ableism. Oppression dehumanizes its victims by denying them their basic rights and dignity as human beings, and by reducing them to mere objects or commodities to be used or discarded at will.

The Impact of Oppression on the Oppressor

Mandela's assertion that oppression robs both the oppressor and the oppressed of their humanity is significant because it highlights the fact that oppression is not just a problem for the victims, but also for the perpetrators. Oppression dehumanizes both the oppressed and the oppressor by creating a system of domination and subordination that is based on the false belief in the superiority of one group over another.

The Loss of Empathy and Compassion

Oppression also has a corrosive effect on the moral and ethical values of society, as it erodes empathy, compassion, and social responsibility. This is because oppression creates a culture of fear, mistrust, and violence, which makes it difficult for individuals to connect with each other on a human level. As a result, people become desensitized to the suffering of others, and may even come to justify or rationalize their own oppressive behavior.

The Importance of Restoring Humanity

Mandela's message is clear: oppression dehumanizes both the oppressed and the oppressor, and it is only by restoring humanity and dignity to all individuals that we can build a just and equitable society. This requires acknowledging the harm that has been done, taking responsibility for our actions, and working to dismantle systems of oppression and inequality. It also requires cultivating empathy, compassion, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, sexuality, or ability. Only by doing so can we truly honor the humanity and dignity of all people.