Stigma is a corrosive social force by which individuals and communities throughout history have been systematically dehumanised, scapegoated and oppressed. From the literal stigmatizing (tattooing) of criminals in ancient Greece, to modern day discrimination against Muslims, refugees and the 'undeserving poor', stigma has long been a means of securing the interests of powerful elites.
In this radical reconceptualisation Tyler precisely and passionately outlines the political function of stigma as an instrument of state coercion. Through an original social and economic reframing of the history of stigma, Tyler reveals stigma as a political practice, illuminating previously forgotten histories of resistance against stigmatization, boldly arguing that these histories provide invaluable insights for understanding the rise of authoritarian forms of government today.
Industry Reviews
'Imogen
Tyler's passionate book brings out the enduring power of stigma to mark
inequality on the body in profound, searing ways. This will be a vital
contribution to recognising the lived experience of inequality across history.'
Mike Savage, London School of Economics
'A profoundly original and innovating book. By
giving voice to the dehumanised, Tyler's book powerfully bears witness to the
suffering and tragedy unfolding in our age. Historically attentive and
theoretically sophisticated... intellectually rich and elegantly written.'
Satnam Virdee, University of Glasgow
'A
devastating and brilliant book that reconceptualises stigma for the
Twenty-First Century. Tyler skewers austerity and border regimes, laying out
their human costs with clear-eyed, thoughtful analysis. Stigma is
essential reading for these times.'
Emma Jackson, Goldsmiths
'If you think you know what stigma is, think again. This book is
essential reading for anyone hoping to understand the roots of stigma in our
society and how it is leveraged to embed inequities.'
Mary O'Hara
