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biopolitics, task for session #9: references to the right to maim

Pre-Session Task for Monday, December 11.

Topic: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Jasbir Puar’s “The Right to Maim”

Objective:

To enrich our discussion and deepen our understanding of Puar’s arguments in “The Right to Maim,” you are asked to bring an interdisciplinary theory, framework, or concept to class that can either contrast with, complement, or provide a fresh perspective on Puar’s ideas.

Instructions:

  1. Select a Framework/Theory/Concept:
    • Choose a theoretical framework, concept, or perspective from a discipline outside of Puar’s primary field. This could be from sociology, psychology, law, political science, history, gender studies, etc.
    • Ensure that your choice is relevant to the themes explored in the first three chapters of “The Right to Maim”; you can get inspired from the podcast episode on “The Right to Maim”with Bassam Sidiki. If you need a refresher, the podcast can be accessed here.
  2. Prepare a Short Presentation:
    • Prepare a brief (2–3 minutes) presentation (no slides needed) or discussion points on how your chosen framework contrasts with, complements, or adds a new dimension to Puar’s arguments. You may also already publish them in the blog here.
    • Consider questions like:
      • How does this framework challenge or support Puar’s views on state violence, debility, and capacity?
      • What new insights or perspectives does it bring to the themes discussed in the book?
      • Are there any points of contention or significant alignments between the two?
  3. Be Ready to Discuss:
    • Come prepared to share your findings and insights with the class.
    • Engage critically and constructively with your peers’ presentations, exploring how these diverse perspectives enhance our collective understanding of Puar’s work.

In preparation of 11.12.: Listen to the podcast episode on “The Right to Maim”with Bassam Sidiki on https://newbooksnetwork.com/the-right-to-maim and comment on it in the blog.

biopolitics, short essay on Crip Nationalism: Pluralizing Embodiments – A Crip Take on Cultural Citizenship

Let’s join scholar Jasbir Puar on a voyage interrogating bodily norms intertwined with cultural ideals of consummate citizenship. Her conception of ‘Crip Nationalism’ challenges state ideologies and social systems cementing ableism by design. It subverts constructions of disability as inherent tragedy or defect, instead locating it in exclusionary infrastructures and policies. Crucially, Crip Nationalism goes beyond deconstructing disability as dis-ease. It reconstructs visions of inclusive citizenship unbounded by bodily conformity.

Take stock of neoliberal capitalist logics worshipping the figure of the unencumbered productive worker-citizen, freely laboring without ‘burdensome’ difference. Such ruling doctrines dismiss bodies that differ from standardized physical or mental norms as drains requiring heavy ‘care’. Historically scientists exploited disabled prisoners as innoculation test subjects because their ‘unfit’ bodies seemed conveniently expendable.

Let’s tune our ears to counter-hegemonic melodies. Behold Shireen, disabled activist, belting anti-carceral protest chants from her motorized wheelchair, embodying Staci Haines’ framework of ‘epic generativity’. Her glittering placard decrees Access for ALL! No Exceptions!” Revel in her joy dethroning tropes of helplessness while demanding rights not pity.

Don’t overlook Pancho, radical veteran dissenter, blasting boots-on-the-ground critiques of militarized ableism. He calibrates carefully between his own injury and collective responsibility for warfare’s unequal brutalization of marginalizedgroups. His poignant question haunts Whose bodies become cannon fodder and why?”

Such subversive soloists accompany orchestral visions for justice spanning technology access, disability arts and culture, solidarity across bodily difference. Their rousing refrain? Dare to dream up citizens’ assemblies where the so-called ‘abnormal’ help authorize policies prioritizing care and inter-dependence!

Heed Crip Nationalism’s urgent call to pluralize bodily ideals undergirding cultural citizenship and state belonging. Let’s collectively re-author more capacious horizons for enfranchisement beyond ableist bounds. Our stories will resound with manifold motifs, recognitions and freedoms for wobbly, wonky, differently-wired embodiments!

biopolitics, The Country of Eridia – a fictional discussion setting – eutopian variant

This activity allows exploration of complex geopolitical issues in a fictionalized setting, fostering open dialogue and critical thinking.

Background

Geography

A small but geopolitically significant country with diverse landscapes reflecting both urban and religious influences.

History

Historically, Eridia has been divided between the Yarans in the west and Zanis in the east, with both groups claiming deep historical and religious ties to the entire land.

Territorial Disputes

Yarans, controlling the government, faced resistance from the Zanis, leading to prolonged conflict.

Governance

A single, Yaran-dominated government with limited Zani representation.

Intermingled Communities

Despite conflicts, Yarans and Zanis have lived side by side in several areas, leading to shared yet contested cultural and religious spaces.

Religious Sites

Many sites within Eridia are sacred to both Yarans and Zanis.

Global Perspectives

Eridia’s strategic position drew significant international attention, with varying viewpoints on its internal conflict.

Diaspora Dynamics

Yaran and Zani diasporas influenced international policies and public opinion.

Disability Prevalence

Ongoing conflicts in the region result in a high prevalence of disabilities, affecting both Yarans and Zanis.

Controversional Politics

Yaran-led government policies towards disability have often been seen as biased, exacerbating existing tensions in the region.


Use this opportunity to consider real-world situations from multiple angles without promoting any one-sided views.

Progressive Eridia

Two-State Harmony

Eridia has successfully implemented a two-state solution. Both Yarans and Zanis are working towards economic and cultural cooperation, with a focus on inclusive and progressive disability policies.

Shared Capital

Mediana, as a shared city, has become a symbol of unity, showcasing successful joint initiatives in disability rights and integration.

Roles

  1. Yaran Disability Rights Minister: Advocates for inclusive policies and workforce integration of disabled individuals.
  2. Zani Health and Social Welfare Representative: Focuses on equitable healthcare and social support for disabled communities.
  3. Mediana Disability Activist: Promotes unified disability rights, bridging political and cultural divides.
  4. International Disability Rights Observer: Praises Eridia’s progressive approach and offers a global perspective.
  5. Disabled Entrepreneur: Shares success stories in the new inclusive economy.
  6. Cultural Scholar: Discusses how Eridia’s cultural diversity enriches its approach to disability rights.

Character Profiles

Yaran Disability Rights Minister

  1. Profile 1: A progressive thinker who believes in using technology and innovation to improve the lives of disabled individuals. Advocates for smart city initiatives that enhance accessibility.
  2. Profile 2: A pragmatic minister focused on policy and legal reforms. Emphasizes the need for education and job training programs for disabled individuals.

Zani Health and Social Welfare Representative

  1. Profile 1: A passionate advocate for mental health and psychological support services, stressing their importance in the overall healthcare system.
  2. Profile 2: A representative with a strong background in public health, pushing for equal access to medical care and physical rehabilitation services.

Mediana Disability Activist

  1. Profile 1: An activist who champions cultural inclusivity and promotes art and cultural programs as a means of empowerment for disabled individuals.
  2. Profile 2: A grassroots organizer who focuses on community building and peer support networks, believing in the power of local initiatives.

International Disability Rights Observer

  1. Profile 1: An academic who praises Eridia’s approach but critically analyzes its sustainability and global impact, questioning long-term effects.
  2. Profile 2: A global NGO leader who is optimistic about Eridia’s policies, seeing them as a model for other nations, and offers support for their implementation.

Disabled Entrepreneur

  1. Profile 1: A tech entrepreneur who has successfully founded a startup focused on assistive technologies, advocating for entrepreneurial opportunities for disabled individuals.
  2. Profile 2: A small business owner who struggled initially but succeeded through resilience. Emphasizes the importance of accessible workplaces and adaptive technologies.

Cultural Scholar

  1. Profile 1: An academic who explores how Eridia’s diverse cultural heritage can be a driving force in creating inclusive societies, emphasizing shared histories.
  2. Profile 2: A cultural critic who challenges the notion of a monolithic Eridian culture, highlighting the need to recognize and celebrate diverse cultural expressions within the disability community.

Preperation

  • Setting: The summit is held in the shared capital city of Mediana, symbolizing the newfound cooperation and harmony between the Yaran and Zani states.
  • Purpose: To discuss and formulate unified disability policies that respect the rights and needs of disabled individuals in both states, focusing on inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities.
  • Key Issues:
    • Integration of disabled individuals into the workforce and society.
    • Harmonization of healthcare and social support systems across both states.
    • Promotion of cultural exchange and mutual understanding regarding disability.
  • Roles and Perspectives:
    • Yaran and Zani government representatives collaborate to create inclusive policies.
    • Activists and disabled individuals share their experiences and advocate for rights and recognition.
    • International observers provide a global perspective and ensure that the policies align with international standards.

Summit Coordinators?

Responsibilities include:

  • Introduce topics, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of disability rights, economic factors, and cultural perceptions.
  • Facilitate balanced dialogue, encourage critical thinking, and manage time effectively.
  • Prompt participants to consider how their discussions relate to the concepts in Puar’s work, especially regarding the construction and value of different disabilities.
  • Taking notes of the discussion and arguments.

Discuss your roles, develop your characters, and plan your approach to the scenario. Think about how you will represent your character’s viewpoint and interact with others.

Role Play

  • Setting: The summit is held in the shared capital city of Mediana, symbolizing the newfound cooperation and harmony between the Yaran and Zani states.
  • Purpose: To discuss and formulate unified disability policies that respect the rights and needs of disabled individuals in both states, focusing on inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities.
  • Key Issues:
    • Integration of disabled individuals into the workforce and society.
    • Harmonization of healthcare and social support systems across both states.
    • Promotion of cultural exchange and mutual understanding regarding disability.
  • Roles and Perspectives:
    • Yaran and Zani government representatives collaborate to create inclusive policies.
    • Activists and disabled individuals share their experiences and advocate for rights and recognition.
    • International observers provide a global perspective and ensure that the policies align with international standards.
    • Summit Coordinators.

biopolitics, The Country of Eridia – a fictional discussion setting – dystopian variant

This activity allows exploration of complex geopolitical issues in a fictionalized setting, fostering open dialogue and critical thinking.

Background

Geography

A small but geopolitically significant country with diverse landscapes reflecting both urban and religious influences.

History

Historically, Eridia has been divided between the Yarans in the west and Zanis in the east, with both groups claiming deep historical and religious ties to the entire land.

Territorial Disputes

Yarans, controlling the government, faced resistance from the Zanis, leading to prolonged conflict.

Governance

A single, Yaran-dominated government with limited Zani representation.

Intermingled Communities

Despite conflicts, Yarans and Zanis have lived side by side in several areas, leading to shared yet contested cultural and religious spaces.

Religious Sites

Many sites within Eridia are sacred to both Yarans and Zanis.

Global Perspectives

Eridia’s strategic position drew significant international attention, with varying viewpoints on its internal conflict.

Diaspora Dynamics

Yaran and Zani diasporas influenced international policies and public opinion.

Disability Prevalence

Ongoing conflicts in the region result in a high prevalence of disabilities, affecting both Yarans and Zanis.

Controversional Politics

Yaran-led government policies towards disability have often been seen as biased, exacerbating existing tensions in the region.


Use this opportunity to consider real-world situations from multiple angles without promoting any one-sided views.

Divided Eridia

Two-State Tension

The two-state solution in Eridia has led to increased division and isolation, with both states developing divergent and often conflicting disability policies.

Economic and Cultural Divide

The disparity in resources and cultural attitudes towards disability has widened, leading to inequality and social unrest.

Roles

  1. Yaran Government Official: Defends stringent policies focused on ‘ability’ and economic contribution, often neglecting broader disability rights.
  2. Zani Resistance Leader: Highlights the struggles and marginalization of disabled Zanis, especially in resource-starved areas.
  3. Disillusioned Mediana Activist: Criticizes both states for failing to address the needs of all disabled individuals.
  4. Critical Theorist: Challenges the prevailing narratives of disability vs. ableness, and highlights issues like the different treatment of veterans vs. non-veterans and neurodiverse individuals.
  5. International Humanitarian Worker: Expresses concern over the worsening conditions for disabled people in Eridia.
  6. Disabled War Veteran: Shares personal experiences of conflict, neglect, and the struggle for recognition.

Character Profiles

Yaran Government Official

  1. Profile 1: A hardliner focused on economic productivity, viewing disability through the lens of workforce contribution and economic benefit.
  2. Profile 2: A bureaucrat who believes in strict policies for resource allocation, prioritizing ‘able’ disabled individuals and often overlooking those with severe disabilities.

Zani Resistance Leader

  1. Profile 1: A fiery speaker who emphasizes the injustices faced by disabled Zanis and calls for radical changes in policy and societal attitudes.
  2. Profile 2: A strategic thinker who proposes concrete solutions and advocates for international intervention to ensure equitable treatment of disabled Zanis.

Disillusioned Mediana Activist

  1. Profile 1: An activist who has become cynical due to the lack of progress, questioning the motives of both governments and advocating for a third, independent path for Mediana.
  2. Profile 2: A former government worker turned activist, disillusioned by the bureaucracy and red tape, now advocating for grassroots movements to drive change.

Critical Theorist

  1. Profile 1: A scholar who critiques the binary view of disability, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of the spectrum of abilities and challenging societal norms.
  2. Profile 2: An academic who focuses on the intersectionality of disability, highlighting how race, gender, and class intersect with disability, often leading to compounded marginalization.

International Humanitarian Worker

  1. Profile 1: A seasoned aid worker who has witnessed the deteriorating conditions firsthand, advocating for immediate international aid and intervention.
  2. Profile 2: A policy advisor for an international organization who critiques the short-term nature of aid, advocating for systemic changes and sustainable solutions.

Disabled War Veteran

  1. Profile 1: A veteran who speaks about the lack of support and recognition for those injured in service, advocating for better care and respect.
  2. Profile 2: A critically injured veteran who feels abandoned by the system, sharing a personal narrative of struggle and neglect, questioning the values of the society that once hailed them as heroes.

Preperation

  • Setting: The summit takes place in a neutral location, with high security due to the tensions between the Yaran and Zani states.
  • Purpose: To address the escalating crisis regarding the treatment and rights of disabled individuals in both states, amidst growing international concern and internal strife.
  • Key Issues:
    • Disparities in access to healthcare and support for disabled individuals.
    • Allegations of discrimination and neglect in disability policies.
    • The impact of ongoing conflict and economic disparity on disabled communities.
  • Roles and Perspectives:
    • Government officials from both states defend their policies amidst criticism.
    • Activists and disabled individuals express frustration and demand change.
    • Critical theorists and international representatives challenge the existing policies and advocate for a more equitable approach.

Summit Coordinators?

Responsibilities include:

  • Introduce topics, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of disability rights, economic factors, and cultural perceptions.
  • Facilitate balanced dialogue, encourage critical thinking, and manage time effectively.
  • Prompt participants to consider how their discussions relate to the concepts in Puar’s work, especially regarding the construction and value of different disabilities.
  • Taking notes of the discussion and arguments.

Discuss your roles, develop your characters, and plan your approach to the scenario. Think about how you will represent your character’s viewpoint and interact with others.

Role Play

  • Setting: The summit takes place in a neutral location, with high security due to the tensions between the Yaran and Zani states.
  • Purpose: To address the escalating crisis regarding the treatment and rights of disabled individuals in both states, amidst growing international concern and internal strife.
  • Key Issues:
    • Disparities in access to healthcare and support for disabled individuals.
    • Allegations of discrimination and neglect in disability policies.
    • The impact of ongoing conflict and economic disparity on disabled communities.
  • Roles and Perspectives:
    • Government officials from both states defend their policies amidst criticism.
    • Activists and disabled individuals express frustration and demand change.
    • Critical theorists and international representatives challenge the existing policies and advocate for a more equitable approach.
    • Summit Coordinators.

biopolitics, commentary on session #4: trans & disability

Our last seminar delved deep into the concept of “piecing” and how it relates to bodily integrity, autonomy, and identity formation in the Middle East. Piecing, as Jasbir Puar describes, involves the fragmentation and reconstitution of the body, often in response to violence and marginalization. It can be a means of asserting agency and reclaiming narrative.

In our robust group discussions, some key themes emerged:

Piecing as Reclaiming Identity

For trans individuals and people with disabilities in the Middle East, piecing allows the reassertion of an identity that dominant social norms delegitimize. Embodying gender transition or disability on one’s own terms resists narratives that label such bodies as “broken” or “abnormal.” As one participant noted, when society fragments you, piecing becomes an act of refusal.

The Commodification of Body Parts

We must critique how neoliberal capitalism intersects with piecing practices like medical tourism or organ trafficking. Within these systems, the body becomes a commodity—its parts assigned monetary value, accessibility dependent on ability to pay. This compromises bodily autonomy and raises ethical concerns. Who has the “right to maim” for profit?

Piecing as Ontological Multiplicity

Piecing also challenges static conceptions of identity. National, ethnic, religious, and gender identities in the Middle East are contested and in flux. Piecing embraces the coexistence of multiple identities within oneself, recognizing identity as an ever-evolving process rather than a fixed state.

Situating Trans Experiences

For trans people, piecing opens vital possibilities for embodying gender on their own terms. Yet we must also consider the broader context—cultural stigma, medical gatekeeping, lack of legal protections—that compromises trans bodily autonomy in much of the region. As one participant emphasized, realizing self-definition often remains an elusive struggle.

Ultimately, our dialogue revealed universal questions about bodily sovereignty, normalcy, and the relationship between individual and society. Piecing foregrounds the struggles for self-determination and belonging that marginalized communities face worldwide. It calls us to imagine a more just world, where all bodies can thrive in their own ways.

These discussions prompt deeper questions:

  • How are queer and crip bodies portrayed in Middle Eastern media and popular culture? What counter-narratives exist?
  • How do lived experiences of trans and disabled people from the region complicate Western assumptions and savior narratives?
  • What traditional practices and communal care strategies exist in the Middle East that support bodily and psychic difference?
  • How do we move beyond just “tolerance” or “visibility” and build a culture of true belonging?
  • What would policies and societal changes that enhance bodily autonomy and integrity look like in this region and globally?

Our dialogues illustrated how the body becomes a lightning rod for core issues of identity, power and social justice. Piecing foregrounds the universal struggles for self-determination and belonging among marginalized communities worldwide. It calls us to imagine more just futures where all embodiments can thrive.

In our next session, we analyze how disabled bodies are impacted by nationalist projects, medical regimes and capitalism. This critical linkage between body, state and economy will expand our understanding of the forces shaping bodily autonomy.