The Bodies of Children Flashcards
What is the lesson from the lord of the flies regarding civilization?
Demonstrates that people are “savages” until they are instilled with the civilizing process, which includes learning proper behaviour and a sense of shame.
Why are young children the most uncivilized?
They lack control over body functions, are amoral, require constant maintenance and have no sexual orientation or economic value
How has the societal view of childhood changed over time?
Historically, children were seen as “little adults” and contributed to family work; only recently have they been segregated from families for schooling and given a special role in society.
What is the primary duty of parents in the first two years of a child’s life?
To maintain the child’s body through feeding, cleaning, and protection, acting as “janitors” of their children’s bodies.
What happens to children who grow up without human care?
They become feral, lack language, walk on all fours, and have no civilized behaviour.
How is shame instilled in children?
Parents teach children to manage bodily functions, cover nudity, and follow social norms, reinforcing shame as a making of civilization.
how was physical punishment used to civilize children in the past?
Beatings, public school caning, and strict discipline were used to instill obedience and social norms.
How were children’s bodies historically shaped into adult forms?
Boys wore corsets, girls were taught to sit properly, and boys were made to sleep with arms outside the covers to prevent masterbation.
How do different cultures view shame?
Some societies, like the Yanomami, lack concepts of shame, while Western cultures use it as a tool for civilization.
Why do wealthier nations have lower birth rates than poorer nations?
In wealthier nations, children are economic liabilities, while in poorer nations, they provide labour and elder care.
What are the common reasons for having children in wealthier nations?
Social expectations, family legacy, religious beliefs, and emotional fulfillment.
What are common reasons for having children in developing nations?
Economic necessity - children provide labour and care for their parents in their old age.
How did industrialization change child labour?
Children moved from farms to cities, working in factories and mines until child labour laws restricted them.
What was the consequence of child labour laws?
Children became economically useless, making poor families even poorer.
Why is the Western idea of childhood luxury?
It exists due to economic prosperity, while children in developing nations must work to survive.
How does economic disparity affect childhood globally?
Western children are dependent and privileged, while children in poorer nations are self-sufficient and necessary for family survival.
