UnHuman by Dominick Clayton

Unhuman delves into the dark and enduring legacy of dehumanization in American history, focusing on the institution of slavery and its far-reaching impact on the nation’s identity. This compelling exploration examines three interconnected aspects: the dehumanization of the enslaved, the moral erosion of the enslavers, and the complicity of those who profited from slavery’s vast economic machinery.
The book reveals how the practice of reducing human beings to property not only inflicted unimaginable suffering on millions but also corrupted the nation’s cultural and economic foundations. It argues that slavery dehumanized everyone involved enslavers - became justifiers of cruelty, profiteers turned into silent beneficiaries, and society as a whole was left grappling with a fractured moral compass. The inability to fully confront this history has left scars that manifest in systemic racism, inequality, and persistent social divisions.
 
But Unhuman doesn’t stop at analysis. It offers a path forward by identifying opportunities for healing and transformation. Through rigorous historical research, compassionate storytelling, and actionable insights, the book explores ways to reckon with this painful past and dismantle the lingering remnants of dehumanization. By fostering honest dialogue, community engagement, and systemic reform, Unhuman envisions a future where justice, empathy, and shared humanity can prevail.
 
This is more than a history book—it’s a call to action. Unhuman invites readers to not only understand the roots of America’s trauma but to engage in the difficult yet essential work of healing, so the nation can finally move toward a more just and inclusive society.