The study of medicine is the basis of modern society's understanding of health and wellness. Historically, physicians have used their knowledge to identify illnesses and diseases and treat them with medication and therapy.
This medical approach to healthcare has also been used to pathologize certain groups, including those who are considered "queer." In this article, I will discuss how historical medical discourse has pathologized queer identities and what lessons for contemporary bioethics, public health, and social justice can be drawn from this history.
Medical Discourse and Queerness
Medical discourse refers to the language used by doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals when describing patients' bodies and conditions. It includes terminology, diagnoses, and treatments. Throughout history, medical discourse has often focused on the "normal" body and pathologized any deviation from that norm. This means that anything outside of the socially accepted gender or sexual norms was seen as abnormal and required treatment.
In the 19th century, homosexuality was considered an illness that could be cured through electroshock therapy or psychotherapy.
Queerness and Bioethics
There has been a growing movement to challenge traditional notions of health and wellness. The field of bioethics explores ethical questions related to biotechnology, medical research, and clinical practice. It seeks to ensure that all people have access to equitable healthcare services without discrimination based on race, sex, gender, religion, ability, etc. A key part of this work is examining how medicine has historically pathologized queerness and working towards more inclusive practices.
Lessons for Contemporary Healthcare
One lesson we can learn from historical medical discourse is that our understanding of health is shaped by societal norms. By recognizing this fact, we can begin to create more inclusive healthcare systems that recognize diversity rather than pathologizing it. Another lesson is that marginalized groups need to be included in discussions about health policy and healthcare delivery.
We must strive for greater transparency and accountability within the medical community when it comes to issues such as queer identity. Only then can we hope to address longstanding inequities and improve outcomes for everyone.
Historical medical discourse has pathologized certain identities, including those who are queer.
By learning from this history, we can work towards more inclusive healthcare policies and practices. This includes recognizing the role of social norms in shaping our understanding of health and ensuring that all voices are heard in decision-making processes.
We need a healthcare system that is equitable for all.
How has historical medical discourse pathologized queer identities, and what lessons for contemporary bioethics, public health, and social justice can be drawn from this history?
Medical discourse has historically pathologized queer identities by characterizing them as deviant, abnormal, and in need of correction. This narrative has resulted in significant harm to members of LGBTQ+ communities, including forced conversion therapy, involuntary institutionalization, and denial of basic human rights.