Symbolic violence in social organization: an analytical study

Abstract

Symbolic violence is a complex sociological concept highlighted by the French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu to describe a form of indirect domination exercised through symbolic and cultural mechanisms in society, which differs from direct violence. Symbolic violence operates in a concealed manner and serves as a tool in the production of the social structure. It manifests within organizations, which are among the fundamental pillars upon which social life is built. Symbolic violence is expressed through mechanisms such as education, language, media, traditions, and social roles within the social organization. It is a modern concept, and this study adopted an analytical approach to examine symbolic violence within social organization. Among the most important findings of the research are the following:
.1 Symbolic violence is one of the most prominent forms of violence practiced within social organization and is evident at the level of social institutions. It can be said that the relationship between social organization and symbolic violence is a functional one.
.2 Symbolic violence takes multiple forms and pathways that are no less dangerous than physical violence. In fact, it can extend more widely and deeply to include all non-material forms of violence that harm others, whether through language, speech, or other expressive forms.
.3 Symbolic violence is distinguished by being hidden, and it may involve normalizing the other’s sense of inferiority. It emerges in situations of domination exercised by those in power over their subordinates..