The swear word “Anjing” as a tool of dehumanization: A study of Indonesia football supporters’ behaviour

บทคัดย่อ

The relationship between humans and animals in the context of sports reveals
intriguing insights into human behaviour. Dogs, once a symbol and a mascot,
have now experienced a troubling shift. They are subjected to swearing by
Indonesian football supporters, expressing emotions during matches using the
swear word “Anjing” (meaning “dogs” in English). This study aims to analyse
the meaning and impact of such swearing on supporters’ behaviour. Applying
the theory of Dehumanization and Ethnography of Communication, this
research employed participants observation, in-depth interviews, and document
studies. Observing supporters’ behaviour during twenty-one football matches
from January 2022 to June 2023, and interviewing five football supporters, the
study explores the meaning behind swearing behaviour. The findings revealed
that the swear word “Anjing” represents a form tool of dehumanization
indicating diverse characteristics adaptable to various subjects. The primary
intention is to dehumanize opposing supporters. This choice of swearing target
can degrade human subjects compared to animals, particularly in Indonesia,
where dogs are associated with uncleanliness and thievery in religious and
cultural contexts. Using “Anjing” in swearing may incite verbal retaliation and
potential escalation to violence. A novelty from this study shows that animals
can become objects of profanity, serving as a tool form of dehumanization.
Especially in Indonesia, dogs, which are associated positively elsewhere,
are transformed into derogatory objects to demean humans. In conclusion,
this study sheds light on the complex implications of employing “Anjing” as
profanity, highlighting the intertwining of sociocultural beliefs with sporting
expressions and its impact on supporter behaviour.