Normality as convention and as scientific fact

Ruth Chadwick

pp. 17-28

in: Thomas Schramme, Steven D. Edwards (eds), Handbook of the philosophy of medicine, Berlin, Springer, 2017

Abstract

The concept of the normal is central in modern societies in general and in medicine in particular. Norms are established for body measurements such as cholesterol and body temperature. There are several interpretations of "normal" however. The statistical concept of "normal" is a relatively recent phenomenon historically and some argue that it is a mechanism of power and control. On the other hand, a concept of the normal is arguably necessary to science, medicine, and the possibility of diagnosis.