Margaret Killjoy discusses Moritz Schreber's extreme parenting methods in Nazi Germany, including torture devices. The podcast explores the impact of child-rearing practices on the rise of Nazism and the legacy of Shreber's disturbing teachings.
Read more
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Shreber used physical corrections to mold moral character in children, advocating for posture devices and strict discipline.
Shreber's methods influenced child-rearing practices beyond his time, with uncomfortable corrective treatments believed to be essential for moral development.
Parallels exist between Shreber's philosophy and Nazi ideology, focusing on physical conditioning for a stronger race and moral character.
Deep dives
Schreber's Influence on Child Rearing
Shreber's teachings on child rearing focused on correcting physical attributes to improve moral character, advocating for strict corrective methods like the use of devices for posture and sleeping positions. He believed in suppressing emotions and instilling discipline from a young age, aiming to create a more upright and morally strong generation.
Impact of Shreber's Methods
Shreber's methods of child rearing had influences that extended beyond his time, with devices like the 'Gerald Halter' and 'Kopfalter' aimed at enforcing correct posture in children. His strict and often uncomfortable corrective treatments were seen as essential for moral development, reflecting his belief that physical corrections could lead to moral improvement.
Comparison to Nazi Ideology
There are notable parallels between Shreber's philosophy and Nazi ideology, in terms of aiming to create a superior race through physical conditioning and discipline. The emphasis on physical attributes as a means to mold moral character echoes the Nazi belief in creating a 'stronger race of men.' Shreber's popular books and influence on child rearing practices highlight the lasting impact of his teachings.
Dr. Schreber's Evolution in Child Rearing Techniques
Dr. Schreber initially advocated for strict physical corrections in child rearing but later shifted towards promoting healthy outdoor activities for children. Despite his early controversial methods, he eventually lobbied for the establishment of Schreber Gardens, community gardens in urban areas to provide children with wholesome outdoor activities.
Impact of Dr. Schreber's Teachings on his Children
Dr. Schreber's son, Daniel, faced mental illness and tragedies, ultimately resulting in paranoid schizophrenia. His upbringing, including strict physical discipline and torture devices, contributed to psychological struggles. Daniel's experiences reflect how Dr. Schreber's teachings had lasting effects, showing the complex consequences of extreme child-rearing approaches.
Robert sits down with Margaret killjoy to talk about Moritz Schreber, the pseudo scientific parenting guru who strapped children into torture devices and helped prepare Germany for the Nazis.