Objectification

Objectification is treating others as if they are only potential sources of advantage, or objects to be acted upon. Objectification is not just honoring one's own self-interest, but is an active way of avoiding true contact with others. To objectify humans is to de-humanize them. Few people do this deliberately or consciously , but an over-emphasis on accomplishing things, material development, being in control, or efficiency will bring it about. Not only people, but animals, plants, and minerals can be objectified. First, the elements of objectification are listed below (credit given to Martha Nussbaum):

Objectification is often joined to the concept of 'progress' or development. Objectification is most prevalent in conservative political thought. Besides the obvious effects suggested by the list above, objectification affects contact in the following ways: