Posturing over Protests and Protesting over Posture
May 3, 2024
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Historian of medicine Beth Linker explores posture panic in America, touching on eugenics and power posing. The podcast also discusses the controversy of Columbia University's campuses in Tel Aviv and Beijing, critiquing exclusion and support for Chinese students. Chris Hayes questions the focus on college protests while delving into the complexities of politics and personal reflections.
Posture's historical significance highlights societal norms and medical practices shaping human behavior and identity.
Educational partnerships reflect global complexities, raising concerns over inclusivity and geopolitical implications.
Deep dives
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Columbia University Divestment Controversy
Columbia University faces dissent over establishing a dual-degree program with Tel Aviv University, with 65% of Columbia College students voting against it. The dissent revolves around concerns that the Tel Aviv Global Center may exclude certain Israelis, particularly those in Gaza and the West Bank. This controversy raises questions about fairness and consistency in educational partnerships and highlights global geopolitical complexities.
Historical Significance of Posture
The podcast delves into the historical significance of posture from ancient Greek views emphasizing standing upright as a human attribute to Darwin's theory linking posture to human evolution. Health practitioners and society viewed posture as an indicator of human distinction and defined norms, leading to various practices like posture testing and corrective measures. The discussion highlights how posture intertwined with societal perceptions and medical practices over time.
Posture, Health, and Social Constructs
The conversation evolves to address modern perspectives on posture, health, and societal constructs, questioning common beliefs and practices. Critiques of posture norms and healthcare approaches, especially in relation to conditions like scoliosis, reveal complexities in understanding health and disability. The podcast challenges traditional narratives surrounding posture-related health issues, emphasizing the need for nuanced perspectives informed by historical contexts and critical inquiry.
For decades, bad posture was seen as everything from a moral failing, to a health risk, to a military vulnerability. In her new book, Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America, University of Pennsylvania historian of medicine Beth Linker discusses how concerns over standing up straight touches eugenics, pseudo-science, and power posing. Plus, Columbia University students inveigh against presumed exclusionary practices at a proposed Tel Aviv campus while supporting a campus in Beijing schooling more Chinese students than any other college. And Chris Hayes of MSNBC argues we've all been paying too much attention to college protests.