Dr. Beth Linker talks on NPR-affiliate KQED’s Forum about her new book ‘Slouch’ and the history of posture panic.


Beth Linker’s Book ‘Slouch’ Recounts History of ‘Posture Panic’

LISTEN
Mar 25 at
Save Article
 
 
Beth Linker's new book is "Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America" (MHamiltonVisuals/Princeton University Press)

 

There was a time when the nation was gripped by an epidemic that leaders felt went to the moral core of the country: bad posture. In her new book, “Slouch,” University of Pennsylvania historian Beth Linker recounts how curved spines, rounded shoulders, and slumped backs were considered reflections of moral fitness, the ability to hold a job, and even intelligence. We’ll talk to Linker about this “posture panic” that contributes to the ableism we see today, and we’ll hear from you: How’s your posture?

 

 

Guests:

Beth Linker, author, "Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America"; professor of history and sociology of science, University of Pennsylvania