Tropicality Accepted Version for Archiving.pdf (316.15 kB)
Tropicality and abjection: what do we really mean by “neglected tropical diseases”?
Neglected tropical diseases are defined operationally as diseases that prevail in “tropical” regions and are under-researched, under-funded, and under-treated compared with their disease burden. By analysing the adjectives “tropical” and “neglected,” I expose and interrogate the discourses within which the term “neglected tropical disease” derives its meaning. First, I argue that the term “tropical” conjures the notion of “tropicality,” a form of Othering which erroneously explains the disease-prevalence of “tropical” regions by reference to environmental determinism, rather than colonialism and neocolonialism. Second, I examine the way in which this Othering enables the abjection of tropical regions and their peoples, leading to neglect. I recommend that the term “neglected tropical diseases” be more carefully contextualised within health scholarship, education, and policy.
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Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Journal
Developing World BioethicsISSN
1471-8731Publisher
WileyExternal DOI
Department affiliated with
- BSMS Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2019-02-06First Open Access (FOA) Date
2021-03-19First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2019-02-05Usage metrics
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