Selling Immunity Self, Culture and Economy in Healthcare and Medicine
provides a groundbreaking study of the ways in which immunity shapes
life. Through its up-to-date discussion of immunity cultures, alongside
detailed real-world examples, the book demonstrates how immunity is
enmeshed in concepts of possessive individualism, self-defence and
health consumerism.
The book explores the rich metaphorical powers of immunity and the life
narratives it inspires with reference to the talk of scientists,
immunology texts and popular science magazines. The author provides a
detailed overview of the ways in which digital media can shape the
immune self with reference to cultural and social theories, providing
insight into how immunitary knowledge and products are consumed and the
benefits and drawbacks this has for healthcare. The book considers the
significance of immunity for individuals navigating the threats to
health that arise with pandemics and superbugs, with a keen look into
how these ideas surface in everyday life across the globe. Finally, the
book also discusses economic bases of healthcare technologies bent
towards the protection and restoration of immunity.
This book is essential reading for professionals within the fields of
psychology, sociology, biomedical science, healthcare and other related
disciplines. A broader audience will appreciate the book's attention on
the ways immunity is understood to be a personal possession, an object
of life craft, and the basis for healthcare consumerism.
