Beth Linker, author of 'Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America', explores the historical perspectives on good posture and health. She challenges the common belief that good posture leads to good health, highlighting shifts in perceptions over time. The podcast delves into the evolution of ideas surrounding posture, the cultural influences on this concept, and the myth of good posture's correlation with back pain.
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Quick takeaways
The historical evolution of posture beliefs reveals contrasting views from the 1700s to modern times.
Posture promotion was intertwined with concerns about civilization, health risks, and eugenics movements.
Deep dives
Origins of Modern Posture Beliefs
The podcast discusses how the modern cultural stance on posture was shaped by historical and scientific influences. Historian Bethlinker's research revealed a lack of consensus on posture in the 1700s, contrasting with today's rigid beliefs. The link between good posture and health benefits was reinforced by early 20th-century scientific theories, with the idea that civilization caused slouching.
Posture Reform and Health Concerns
Posture reform efforts in the late 1800s linked proper posture to concepts of evolution and 'civilized' behavior. Concerns about white Europeans slouching prompted efforts to improve posture for evolutionary fitness. The eugenics movement furthered beliefs that civilization and modernity contributed to poor posture, leading to health concerns and posture reform initiatives.
Evolution of Posture Promotion
The episode tracks the evolution of posture promotion through organizations like the American Posture League. The linkage of bad posture to tuberculosis risk and overall health concerns became widespread. Posture checks became part of standardized medical exams, impacting entry to the country and job opportunities. Despite fading posture promotion efforts, the cultural acceptance of good posture remained embedded into modern-day beliefs.