Rankism in society is a prevalent factor in the negative behavior of people everywhere. The abuse of power can lead to psychosis in an otherwise normal person.

Rankism is rampant in everyday life. Whether it is a parent beating a child, a teacher mocking a student or a patron scoffing at a waiter, we are constantly reminded of our rank in the world, but few take the time to realize what it is and how it effects those involved. Rankism is, quite simply, an intolerance of those of different ranks or social standings; their – often presumed – rank gives them the right to treat those of ‘lower ranks’ poorly.

A person’s rank often makes them feel powerful, and sometimes this leads to an abuse of said power. This is often seen in work places, where a ‘higher up’, such as a manager, patronizes a subordinate. People tend to think of this being all right because it is a common occurrence, but there are many teachers, doctors, managers and other ‘high ranking’ persons who do not treat ‘lower ranking’ people badly. Sometimes ranks are used as intended; to ensure that a project gets completed on time, with all employees working together like the inner workings of a clock. However, when this concept of power is bestowed upon a bully, their rank is not viewed as an organizational tool, but rather permission to torture.

Rankism often makes people feel ashamed, and usually spurs the desire to ‘pull rank’ on another individual. For instance, a nurse is mocked by her doctor and peers for making a mistake, and in turn she goes home and insults her husband who ‘just flips burgers’ while she is helping save people. Another example is a child who is ridiculed at school and, in turn, does the same to a younger sibling at home. Rankism often makes people feel deeply regretful and apologetic for making simple mistakes, even if they’ve seen those of higher ranks make the same mistake. Perhaps one of the better examples of rankism between a parent and their child the common phrase “Do as I say; not as I do.”

Now that we understand exactly what rankism is, how do we save our dignity and put a stop to it? Though sexual prejudice and racial profiling are both common throughout history, the terms ’sexism’ and ‘racism’ were never used until the late 1960s. Women had to overcome seeming conceited in order to get treated the same as men, and those suffering from racial prejudice often had to combat ridicule and violence in order to be treated fairly. Just as those suffering from other prejudices had to get used to the idea of calling people out for being sexist and racist, those being tortured through rankism need to step out of their comfort zone and bring attention to their abuse.

When the term sexism first came into public view men took great care not to be labeled a ’sexist,’ likewise, seeing a few people being declared ‘rankists’ should put pressure on people to be more respectful of others – both in the workplace and otherwise.