Stigma: The Machinery of Inequality

Stigma is a powerful social force that has been used to dehumanize, scapegoat, and oppress individuals and communities throughout history. Tyler's book explores how stigma has been used as an instrument of state coercion, revealing previously forgotten histories of resistance against stigmatization. These histories provide insights into the rise of authoritarian forms of government today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Stigma is a potent social force that has dehumanized, scapegoated, and oppressed individuals and communities throughout history. It has been employed as a tool to secure the interests of powerful elites, from the literal stigmatization of criminals in ancient Greece to modern-day discrimination against Muslims, refugees, and the undeserving poor. In his groundbreaking book, Tyler offers a radical reconceptualization of stigma, presenting it as an instrument of state coercion. Through an original social and economic lens, Tyler uncovers stigma as a political practice, illuminating previously forgotten histories of resistance against stigmatization. He boldly argues that these histories offer invaluable insights into the rise of authoritarian forms of government today.

Stigma has a long and complex history, dating back to ancient times. In ancient Greece, criminals were often tattooed as a form of stigmatization, marking them as outcasts and undesirables. This practice continued in various forms throughout history, including during the **** regime in Germany, where Jews were forced to wear yellow stars.

In modern society, stigma is often associated with certain groups, such as Muslims, refugees, and the poor. These groups are often subjected to discrimination, marginalization, and violence, leading to social exclusion and economic inequality. Stigma can have devastating consequences for individuals and communities, including mental health problems, reduced social support, and limited opportunities for education and employment.

One of the key arguments made by Tyler in his book is that stigma is not just a social phenomenon, but also a political one. He argues that stigma is used by governments and other powerful institutions to maintain control over their populations and to justify their actions. For example, during the Cold War, the United States government used anti-communist stigma to justify its policies of containment and intervention in other countries. Similarly, in many authoritarian regimes, stigma is used to suppress dissent and maintain power.

Tyler offers a range of strategies for challenging stigma and promoting social inclusion. He advocates for a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of stigma, recognizing that it is often rooted in complex social and economic factors. He also calls for policies that promote social inclusion and reduce discrimination, such as anti-discrimination laws, affirmative action programs, and social welfare programs.

In conclusion, stigma is a corrosive social force that has dehumanized, scapegoated, and oppressed individuals and communities throughout history. Tyler's book offers a radical reconceptualization of stigma, presenting it as an instrument of state coercion. Through an original social and economic lens, he uncovers stigma as a political practice, illuminating previously forgotten histories of resistance against stigmatization. By promoting a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of stigma and advocating for policies that promote social inclusion, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350379275