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Sterilization versus segregation: control of the 'feebleminded', 1900-1938
1Department of Geography, York University, Ontario, Canada.
Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|January 1, 1991
Summary
This study examines how eugenics influenced institutions for individuals with intellectual disabilities in Britain and North America. It highlights farm colonies as a physical manifestation of eugenic control, using Langdon colony as a case study.
Area of Science:
- History of Science
- Social History
- Disability Studies
Background:
- The rise of the eugenics movement in the early 20th century.
- The debate between sterilization and segregation for controlling reproduction among the 'unfit'.
- The development of specialized custodial institutions for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Observation:
- Farm colonies emerged as a key expression of eugenic ideologies.
- These colonies represented a physical and social manifestation of eugenic policies.
- The study focuses on the geographical development of these institutions.
Findings:
- The paper models the contextualization of institutional studies within the eugenics framework.
- Eugenic ideologies directly shaped the design and function of custodial institutions.
- Farm colonies exemplified the practical application of eugenic social control.
Implications:
- Understanding the historical roots of institutionalization and eugenics is crucial.
- This research provides a framework for analyzing the impact of social policies on institutional landscapes.
- The case study of Langdon colony illustrates the tangible effects of eugenic policies on specific communities.