Meaning of Ostracism (What it is, Concept and Definition)

What is Ostracism:

Ostracism means isolation or exclusion. It is a term that comes from the ancient Greek word ὀστρακισμός (ostrakismos) means exactly banishment for ostracism.

The word ὄστρακον (ostrakon) means shell or shell (eggshell, turtle shell), even those made of clay. Curiously, it also refers to a piece of shell-shaped terracotta where the names of those ancient citizens who would be banished after a vote were written. Many have been found on the site of the Agora of Athens.

Ostracism in Athens

Ostracism was a form of punishment imposed on citizens suspected of exercising excessive power and restricting public liberty. The law was instituted in Athens as a measure to prevent the formation of a new tyranny, a popular self-defense mechanism. The citizen condemned to ostracism was sentenced to exile for 10 years or permanently.

Social ostracism

Social ostracism is the removal (imposed or voluntary) of an individual from the social environment or from participation in activities that were previously common. A form of ostracism that occurs with some frequency is in the artistic environment, when the professional disconnects from the public or withdraws for a time, sometimes being completely forgotten.

See also Exclusion.

Ostracism today

Currently, in the world of politics, the term ostracism continues to be used when a member is separated because he or she is not liked or interested in others. That member is called ‘persona non grata’.