New Books in Sociology Erin Pritchard, "Midgetism: The Exploitation and Discrimination of People with Dwarfism" (Routledge, 2023)
May 24, 2025
In this interview, Erin Pritchard, a Senior Lecturer at Liverpool Hope University and expert in disability studies, delves into her groundbreaking work on midgetism. She uncovers the pervasive exploitation and discrimination faced by people with dwarfism, challenging societal assumptions that support harmful stereotypes. Pritchard critiques the concept of 'midget entertainment,' contrasting it with respectful representations. She emphasizes the need for inclusivity, particularly in environments designed for non-normate individuals, to foster understanding and acceptance.
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Defining 'Midgetism' Discrimination
- "Midgetism" is a coined term to describe unique discrimination explicitly faced by people with dwarfism.
- This discrimination is distinct from general heightism or disablism and stems from historical freak show contexts.
Non-normative Spaces and Impact
- Non-normative spaces are places where people with dwarfism often exist outside societal norms.
- These spaces can both support community or reinforce discrimination like venues for dwarf tossing.
Erin's Midget Wrestling Experience
- Erin grew up watching WWE midget wrestling knowing it was entertainment but saw how it became comedic spectacle.
- She highlights how dwarf wrestlers are laughed at as unthreatening figures unlike average size wrestlers.