ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the influential psychological and metaphysical ideas about the 'other', the process of 'othering' and the effects of being 'othered'. It suggests that while the concepts of 'self' and 'others' may be regarded as arbitrary and abstract constructs they have psychological and social effects that damage well-being and the reciprocity that enhances a sense of personal value. The chapter shows how othering may disrespect a mutual I-thou relationship and create an I-it objectification of others. It also suggests that this process may be implicated in the exclusion of children from what could be a more inclusive environment. The chapter shows how political and economic policies can lead to the de-professional othering of teachers. Over the past few years, Anne Jordan and her colleagues in Canada have published a number of studies of teachers' epistemological beliefs and how they believe they can help children.
