Rethinking posthumanism in rehabilitation science: Lessons from Indigenous, Black, and decolonial thought

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Philosophy
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Posthumanism is increasingly adopted in rehabilitation science (e.g., occupational therapy, physical therapy).
• This adoption critiques European humanist concepts perpetuating individualism, ableism, and anthropocentrism.
• However, current posthumanist scholarship often overlooks dehumanization, particularly racism, colonialism, and anti-Blackness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critique the prevalent use of posthumanism by predominantly white scholars in the Global North.
• To highlight the omission of sustained engagement with racism, colonialism, and anti-Blackness within rehabilitation science.
• To advocate for integrating decolonial critiques of posthumanism from Black, Indigenous, and Latin American scholars.

Main Methods:

• Literature synthesis and critical analysis of posthumanist theories in rehabilitation.
• Examination of epistemic colonial violence embedded in popular posthumanist approaches.
• Theoretical inquiry into rehabilitation scholars' responsibilities.

Main Results:

• Popular posthumanist approaches in rehabilitation risk perpetuating colonial violence.
• The field's engagement with posthumanism lacks critical perspectives on systemic dehumanization.
• Decolonial scholars offer vital critiques and alternative theoretical frameworks.

Conclusions:

• Posthumanist rehabilitation scholarship must actively engage with decolonial thought to address racism and colonialism.
• Centering theories developed by racialized, Indigenous, and decolonial scholars is crucial for global relevance.
• This integration is necessary for posthuman healthcare and rehabilitation to benefit diverse populations beyond elite, white demographics.