From medical marvels in the nineteenth century to questions surrounding quality of life in the late twentieth century, the course explores the continuities and changes in the relationship between medical science and difference. The course will investigate the ways that medicine has understood, categorised and treated those whose body or behaviour was considered different. It will also examine the body and mind as contested sites; spaces occupied by those considered different; the establishment of normality versus deviance; the changing conceptions of difference in this historical period and the shifting theories and methodologies of medical practice in relation to it.
Private Study: 276
Contact Hours: 24
Total: 300
Main assessment methods
Essay (4,000 words) 40%
Group Project 40%
Seminar Analysis 20%
Reassessment methods
100% coursework: Essay (4,000 words) – 100%
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages: https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate a deeper understanding of science, medicine and the body;
2 Appreciate the dynamics of the relationship between medical practitioners, scientists and difference;
3 Navigate through a rich and complex historiography, and current controversies, of the changing nature of the definitions of difference over time;
4 Utilize a wide range of primary materials including medical and scientific journals, contemporary accounts, illustrations, depictions and memoirs;
5 Engage with concepts pertinent to the remit of the Masters programme, especially constructions of the changing nature of difference; the body and mind as contested spaces; modes and methods of scientific measurement and standardisation of the body; treatment regimes.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Synthesize different types of historical information effectively with in-depth utilization of primary and secondary material;
2 Demonstrate self-directed learning, critical expression, fluent prose and a sophisticated understanding of the subject. Students will be able to reflect on their experience and identity future directions for research via independent study and teacher feedback;
3 Engage in class discussions and group work on complex historical issues and present using a variety of methods, which will emphasize communication skills and encourage team-building.
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