Saming

Saming Definition

Saming is a term adopted within sociology, often noted for its contentious nature, which functions as the conceptual opposite of ‘othering’. While the process of othering involves constructing a clear distinction between a group and the self (‘us’), saming describes the strategic act of asserting that another group shares a relationship or similarity with the dominant group. Specifically, saming is employed to analyse situations where a claim is advanced regarding the shared characteristics or resemblance between a group and another group previously categorised as distinct or separate.

Contrast with Othering

Saming operates in direct opposition to othering. Othering refers to the social action of establishing a clear boundary by positioning a particular group in stark contrast to the dominant group (‘us’). In contrast, saming is the discursive strategy used to establish a connection or perceived similarity between groups, thereby negating the established difference.

Application

This concept is utilised in sociological analysis to examine how identities are constructed and negotiated. It addresses claims of relatedness that challenge established hierarchies of difference by asserting shared attributes between socially demarcated populations.