ABSTRACT
This chapter advocates for a broader conceptualization of character assassination (CA) outside of psychological theory. It argues for a paradigmatic shift toward the sociocultural tradition of communication. As a structurational phenomenon, CA plays a dual role as both a means of structuration and a property of social structure. It contributes to activities and practices that produce and maintain established social structures in culture and society. This includes the reproduction of ideological and power relations in social groups and institutions. As a result, various CA practices become incorporated into society as sustained modes of communication, informal sanctions, and violence. However, CA is not only an instrument of domination but also a resource of social transformation and change. The author provides insights into the application of CA as transformative capacity in social systems.
