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Mapping the postwar legacies of eugenics in socialist countries:a conceptual history of eugenics in Hungary
Title / Series / Name
Medicine, Health Care and Philosophy
Publication Volume
27
Publication Issue
3
Pages
Authors
Editors
Keywords
Conceptual history
Eugenics
Hungary
Postwar period
Socialism
Humans
History, 20th Century
Eugenics/history
Socialism/history
Health (social science)
Education
Philosophy
Health Policy
SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
Eugenics
Hungary
Postwar period
Socialism
Humans
History, 20th Century
Eugenics/history
Socialism/history
Health (social science)
Education
Philosophy
Health Policy
SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
URI
https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14018/26598
Abstract
The paper aims to understand the various legacies of eugenics in the postwar period to recognize both the continuities and discontinuities of eugenics with an approach which is both conceptually sound and historically correct. Building on earlier work of Lene Koch, the paper endeavours to chart the historical trajectory of eugenics by examining how its definition and those of its related or oppositional concepts have evolved within selected lexicon entries across various stages of the century. The inclusion and publication of a concept within a lexicon indicate its significance, linguistic vitality, and prevalence in public discourse. These entries serve as a window into the contemporary understanding and application of concepts over an entire century, offering insights into the practices of eugenics as interpreted by the authoritative scholars of the era. Additionally, these lexicon entries offer more than just a mirror to the past’s prevailing attitudes. The very act of articulating a concept may be viewed as a pivotal element in social struggles, influencing the course of eugenic practices and their interpretations. Both conceptual history and discourse analysis share common ground in their perception of concepts, considering the use of language as a social activity endowed with performative capabilities. They recognize that language does not merely reflect reality but can actively shape it, playing a significant role in societal dynamics and power relations. The Hungarian lexicon entries on eugenics reveal notable disparities in the identified content, the periodization, and the evolution of changes when compared to Lene Koch’s earlier study on Scandinavian eugenics. In Hungary, the concept of eugenics underwent significant changes over four successive periods. The history and interpretation of eugenics can vary significantly from one country to another. Different nations have had their unique experiences and trajectories with the eugenics movement, which have been shaped by their specific cultural, political, and social contexts. These variations emphasize the importance of considering the localized and historical perspectives when examining the concept of eugenics.
Topic
Publisher
Place of Publication
Type
Journal article
Date
2024-09
Language
ISBN
Identifiers
10.1007/s11019-024-10218-7