2

I need a phrase for a process which goes on large scale, trying to optimize overall output while ignoring needs of individual members.

The focus should be on the negative aspect: ignoring the needs.

(e.g. a doctor suggesting the same cure for everybody, being helpful for 80% of his customers, but not at all for the others).

4
  • Pondering this. "Impersonal" is the generic term, but we might also say something like "industrial" or "factory farm medicine" or treating patients like "production line". Basically, manufacturing-related metaphors.
    – Andrew
    Nov 1, 2016 at 0:07
  • Is it something like universalize? Nov 1, 2016 at 0:59
  • @DamkerngT. He's looking for a pejorative, but I don't think we have one with this exact meaning. "Production line" is close, but only when applied to things outside of manufacturing. One size fits all is the closest I can come. Nov 1, 2016 at 1:58
  • Thanks for all! Yes, to be pejorative is important. So far @Andrew's "production line" is the closest to the meaning I'm looking for. Nov 1, 2016 at 7:23

1 Answer 1

1

Some phrases which comes to mind are

for the greater good
on the whole
on average

which presumes the whole over the individual.

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .