Shanery (noun)
Pronunciation: SHAY-nuh-ree
Definition:
Exploitative, narcissistic behavior that treats people, systems, or environments as disposable inputs for transactional gain, with little regard for long-term harm or reciprocity.
Pronunciation: SHAY-nuh-ree
Definition:
Exploitative, narcissistic behavior that treats people, systems, or environments as disposable inputs for transactional gain, with little regard for long-term harm or reciprocity.
The company’s sustainability pitch was pure shanery—branding first, responsibility never.”
• “Turning volunteers into unpaid labor for profit is classic shanery.”
• “That policy shaners communities while calling it efficiency.”
Notes:
Shanery is descriptive, not moralistic. It names a recurring behavioral pattern that many people recognize but previously lacked a precise term for.
• “Turning volunteers into unpaid labor for profit is classic shanery.”
• “That policy shaners communities while calling it efficiency.”
Notes:
Shanery is descriptive, not moralistic. It names a recurring behavioral pattern that many people recognize but previously lacked a precise term for.
by Osirisiseth January 9, 2026
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