This seminar examines interdisciplinary feminist approaches to reproductive ethico-politics, with an emphasis on philosophical work on birthing ethics. Topics include: the medicalization of reproductive processes, medicine as oppressive institution, the experience and politics of gestation and breastfeeding, birthing definitions and epistemologies (e.g., in obstetrics, midwifery, body epistemologies), reproductive surgeries (e.g., abortion, sterilization, cesareans, episiotomies), the creation of reproductive categories such as infertility as disease, forced impregnation as genocide, obstetric violence, philosophy of technologies of birth, and future reproductive technologies (e.g. ectogestation, gametogenesis).
When & Where
Seminar Schedule. Seminars run Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with a midday communal lunch. Seminar conveners may adjust the class schedule in response to participant needs. Special events may also be held during the week. Participants are required to attend the full week of seminar meetings and maintain 90% attendance overall.
Seminar Materials. Eligible participants are provided with all required seminar materials (books, articles, laboratory equipment, and entrance fees).
Accommodations & Meals. Limited housing accommodations are provided to participants who live more than 50 miles from the program site. All admitted participants are provided with some meals during the program period.
Application Procedure. Applicants should submit the completed application along with all of the following:
- A statement of intent that indicates how the seminar participant will apply what is learned at the home institution
- A current CV
- A letter of support from either the division dean or department head, who is well-acquainted with the applicant’s area of research
- Their institutional liaison officer’s approval