the capitalist framework values productivity, efficiency, and economic output, often linking an individual's worth to their ability to generate profit. this article explores how mental health conditions, particularly autism, intersect with these productivity expectations and examines the historical and contemporary implications of eugenics in this context.
the early 20th century saw the rise of the eugenics movement in the united states. states such as california and virginia implemented laws that led to the forced sterilization of individuals deemed "unfit" due to mental health conditions or disabilities. the landmark supreme court case, buck v. bell (1927), upheld these laws with justice oliver wendell holmes, jr. infamously declaring, "three generations of imbeciles are enough" (lombardo, 2008). similarly, nazi germany's eugenics policies, which targeted individuals with mental illnesses and disabilities, were influenced by american eugenic practices. the nazi regime's t4 program resulted in the systematic extermination of over 70,000 people considered "life unworthy of life" (burleigh, 1994). the nazis admired and modeled their sterilization laws and practices after the american approach to eugenics (kevles, 1985).
during the industrial revolution, productivity was measured by output and efficiency in factory settings. workers with mental health issues or disabilities faced harsh conditions, with little support or accommodation. those unable to meet productivity standards were often institutionalized in deplorable conditions, as seen in the workhouses and asylums of 19th century england (thompson, 1963). the shift towards neoliberal economic policies in the late 20th century emphasized individual responsibility and productivity. this period saw the deinstitutionalization of many psychiatric patients, often without adequate community support, leading to increased homelessness and marginalization of individuals with mental health issues (scull, 2015).
the term "high functioning" autism refers to individuals who can perform daily tasks and maintain employment. this label implies a value judgment based on one’s ability to fit into a capitalistic framework, often overlooking the individual's unique challenges and strengths (silberman, 2015). individuals labeled as "high functioning" are expected to be more productive and self-sufficient, aligning with capitalistic ideals. this expectation can place undue stress on these individuals, potentially impacting their mental health and overall well-being (wong, 2017). there is also a risk of exploiting individuals with "high functioning" autism for their productivity, without adequate support or consideration of their needs.
eugenics, the belief in improving the genetic quality of the human population, has historically been used to justify discrimination against those with disabilities. in the early 20th century, eugenic policies led to the forced sterilization and institutionalization of individuals deemed "unfit" for society (kevles, 1985). although overt eugenics policies are largely discredited, the underlying ideology persists in some attitudes toward mental health and productivity. the emphasis on "high functioning" individuals can be seen as a form of modern eugenics, valuing certain traits while marginalizing others (sparrow, 2011).
the neurodiversity movement challenges the medical model of disability, advocating for acceptance and accommodation of neurological differences. this perspective emphasizes the value of all individuals, regardless of their ability to meet capitalistic productivity standards (armstrong, 2010). addressing the links between mental health and productivity requires a commitment to social justice and equity. policies and practices should focus on providing support and accommodations to all individuals, rather than solely valuing economic output (bagenstos, 2009).
conducting qualitative studies can help understand the lived experiences of individuals with mental health conditions and autism within the workplace. exploring how societal expectations and workplace environments impact their mental health and productivity is crucial. investigating the historical roots of eugenics and its impact on current perceptions of mental health and productivity can provide valuable insights. examining how historical policies have shaped contemporary attitudes and practices is necessary for a comprehensive understanding. analyzing current policies and practices in workplaces and their impact on individuals with mental health conditions and autism can inform advocacy for policies that promote inclusion, support, and accommodation.
by investigating these areas, a comprehensive understanding of how mental health, productivity, and eugenics intersect within a capitalistic society can be developed. this understanding can inform more equitable policies and practices moving forward.
we must challenge the capitalistic values that prioritize economic productivity over individual well-being and social equity. we must recognize the inherent worth of every individual, advocating for systems that support diverse needs, and fostering environments where everyone can thrive regardless of their productivity. through this lens, we can work towards a society that values human diversity and promotes genuine inclusion, ultimately creating a more just and equitable world.
references
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kevles, d. j. (1985). in the name of eugenics: genetics and the uses of human heredity. harvard university press.
burleigh, m. (1994). death and deliverance: 'euthanasia' in germany 1900-1945. cambridge university press.
thompson, e. p. (1963). the making of the english working class. pantheon books.
foucault, m. (1965). madness and civilization: a history of insanity in the age of reason. pantheon books.
scull, a. (2015). madness in civilization: a cultural history of insanity, from the bible to freud, from the madhouse to modern medicine. princeton university press.
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armstrong, t. (2010). neurodiversity: discovering the extraordinary gifts of autism, adhd, dyslexia, and other brain differences. da capo lifelong books.