Nazi Pol Prac Re: Disability

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

Life Unworthy of Life:” Nazi Policy and Practice Regarding Disability. This course will examine both the philosophy and the practice of the Nazis against those who were disabled, whether German, Roma or Jewish. Emphasis will be placed in two areas: (1) the roots of the concept of “disability” in Nazi thinking and medical policy and (2) the application of this policy by medical and social service personnel throughout Nazi-occupied territory. A close look at the role of eugenics, social Darwinism and “race and blood” hygiene laws will also be included as contributing to the notion of “disability.” Various figures in implementing these policies will also be studied, such as Hans Asperger, a pioneer researcher in Autism, whose own discoveries encouraged the elimination of disabled children at killing centers such as Spiegelgrund. Mid-term essays and oral finals. Seminar and lecture. Reading and film assignments. Letter grades awarded. Team-taught: Fr. Patrick Desbois and Fr Dennis McManus.