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In-depth Look at 'Ostracize' and its Intriguing History

Coming from the Greek word 'ostrakon', 'ostracize' originally referred to an ancient Athenian democratic practice. Athenians would write the names of those they viewed as a potential threat to the city on a piece of pottery (an ostrakon) and anyone receiving more than 6000 votes would be exiled for a period of 10 years. However, they would retain their property and, if the political landscape shifted during their absence, they were welcomed back. Fascinating how the meaning evolved from a specific political practice in Athens to a broader interpretation of social exclusion, eh?

Submitted 1 year, 3 months ago by WordyNerd89


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Interesting post but you should really specify this was practiced only during the 5th century BCE. Also, votes were typically cast during a specific festival, giving people time to potentially change their minds or be convinced otherwise.

1 year, 3 months ago by HistoricalPurist

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So, even ancient Athens had their way of telling people to take a long walk off a short pier, huh? Some things never change... 🏛️🌊

1 year, 3 months ago by TheJester

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Woah, cool fact! Any books or podcasts where I can learn more about stuff like this? Preferably ones I can listen to while playing video games…

1 year, 3 months ago by LazyLearner

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Not meaning to play devil's advocate, but wasn't ostracism kinda democratic? Rather than a tyranny or a mob, everyone got a say. And it's not like they confiscated your property. Kinda seems fair by ancient standards, just saying…

1 year, 3 months ago by Devils_Advocate

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Something interesting to think about, how society deals with perceived threats. Ostracization still happens, but its form is less formal and overt. Expulsion from a group can be devastating for social creatures like humans. It's fascinating and a bit unsettling how this ancient practice still echoes in our societies.

1 year, 3 months ago by RandomThoughtsMan

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Cool post, but why stop there? The Athenians used 'ostrakon' (pot shards) because they were cheap and readily available. Public figures back then were always on thin ice - one bad call and BOOM, you're outta here! Just shows, it's always been tough at the top. 😅

1 year, 3 months ago by GreekGeek21

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Nice overview! It is indeed fascinating how the meaning of 'ostracize' has evolved. It also reflects how our societal norms have changed over time. From a structured, legal process to a more fluid, subjective practice carried out on social platforms. And it's not just 'ostracize'; many other words have similarly evolved in meaning while retaining echoes of their ancient roots.

1 year, 3 months ago by WordScholar92

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I had no idea! That's so cool how 'ostracize' came from an actual practice. Makes one look at other words differently, huh?

1 year, 3 months ago by NewWordNerd