Childhood (LIBERAL 'cult of childhood' thesis) Flashcards
Describe the liberal, historical argument regarding the emergence of the ‘cult of childhood’.
The argument is that the modern ‘cult of childhood’ originated in modern, western, capitalist societies in the sixteenth century and later spread globally.
How did high infant mortality impact the perception of childhood in medieval Europe according to Ariès?
High infant mortality meant societies did not need to socially construct childhood separately within the family and life, as children faced equal punishment for crimes and were treated as ‘mini-adults’.
What does Philippe Ariès argue about childhood in feudal societies?
Ariès argues that childhood did not exist in feudal societies like medieval Europe, where younger individuals were considered ‘mini-adults’ with similar rights, duties, and skills.
Define the concept of a culture of childhood as proposed by Ariès.
Ariès suggests that the decline in infant mortality led to the social construction of a culture of childhood, characterized by child-specific fashion, the rise of schools, and laws protecting children from harm.
What role does industrial capitalism play in Ariès’ argument about the emergence of a culture of childhood?
Industrial capitalism is seen as driving the reductions in infant mortality and necessitating the education, discipline, and cultural integration of children, according to Ariès.
Describe Lloyd de Mause’s perspective on the progress in the conditions of.
Lloyd de Mause (1974) believes there has been a ‘march of progress’ towards child-centered families and society.
Do intersectional feminist theorists agree with Lloyd de Mause’s view on childhood experiences?
Intersectional feminist theorists would argue that not all experience the same ‘nightmare’ or ‘helping mode’ equally.
Define the ‘helping mode’ of childhood according to Lloyd de Mause.
Lloyd de Mause (1974) describes the ‘helping mode’ as a state where smaller families prioritize children and society is structured to include them.
How does Fuller (2010) critique the liberal narrative on childhood experiences?
Fuller suggests that children from oppressed social groups have different experiences compared to privileged children, which the liberal narrative fails to address.
Describe the impact of the 1889 Prevention of Cruelty Act according to Lloyd de Mause.
Lloyd de Mause argues that laws like the 1889 Prevention of Cruelty Act have contributed to awakening from the ‘nightmare’ of childhood.
How do young working-class, ethnic minorities, and girls differ in their childhood experiences according to intersectional feminist theorists?
Intersectional feminist theorists suggest that these groups are more likely to face disadvantage and abuse in childhood.
Define the concept of a ‘child-centered family’ as proposed by Lloyd de Mause.
Lloyd de Mause envisions a ‘child-centered family’ where children are at the core, and the societal structure is designed to accommodate them.
