New Books in Science, Technology, and Society Beth Linker on Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America
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Jun 2, 2025 Beth Linker, a historian and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into her book, Slouch. She unravels the historical evolution of 'bad posture' in America, linking it to themes like racism and industrialization. The discussion touches on the American Posture League and the societal impacts of posture norms. Linker also reflects on the intersection of posture, disability, and class, revealing how these perceptions have shifted over time. Plus, she hints at her fascinating upcoming projects exploring health narratives and disability.
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Posture Tied to Big Historical Themes
- The idea of perfect posture in America linked deeply to racism, eugenics, and industrial fears.
- This seemingly small topic uncovers broad historical forces shaping society.
Discovering Posture History in Archives
- Beth Linker stumbled on the history of posture while researching flat feet disability in WWI military.
- She connected physical therapy and posture to ideas about disability and fitness for service.
Upright Posture and Human Identity
- Upright posture linked historically to human superiority and divine qualities.
- Darwin influenced thinking that standing upright preceded higher cognition in evolution, making posture essential to human identity.
