VerAndern und Verrücken

die Konstitution von Sanismus durch Othering, Fragilität und Vulnerabilität

Abstract

This article discusses the structures, dynamics and workings of sanism, focusing on the impact on those labeled Mad or normal. We analyze sanist strategies like othering and observe the intersections between sanism and racism, heterosexism, and classism. In order to understand the effects of sanism we discuss the extent to which the sanist system produces fragile and vulnerable positions and emphasize the consequences of vulnerability for Mad people while demanding accountability from non-affected people. We question the Western binary system and emphasize the cultural-historical fluidity of Madness and normalcy. Finally, we offer the concept of Radical Vulnerability and Critical Fragility to create a space beyond the sanist power dynamic and celebrate Madness as an important part of human diversity.