Theory of Knowledge
13
Chapters
165
Notes
Chapter 1 - Knowledge & The Knower(Core)
Chapter 2 - Knowledge & Technology(Optional)
Chapter 3 - Knowledge & Language(Optional)
Chapter 4 - Knowledge & Politics(Optional)
Chapter 5 - Knowledge & Religion(Optional)
Chapter 6 - Knowledge & Indigenous Societies(Optional)
Chapter 7 - History(AoK)
Chapter 8 - The Human Sciences(AoK)
Chapter 9 - The Natural Sciences(AoK)
Chapter 10 - The Arts(AoK)
Chapter 11 - Mathematics(AoK)
Chapter 12 - ToK Exhibition
Chapter 13 - ToK Essay
Theory of Knowledge
Chapter 8 - The Human Sciences(AoK)
Redefining 'Normal': Society's Shifting Views & Controversies
775 words
4 mins read
Last edited on 14th Jun 2024
Table of content
The complexity of 'normal'
- "Normal" is a term that's fluid, changing as per the perceptions of different societies and human sciences. * What's deemed normal in one culture may be labeled as deviant or abnormal in another.
- The notion of normality lacks a standardized criterion, unlike disease study where symptoms and pathology give a defined line of "normal" vs. "abnormal". For example, a fever is not normal, but a 'cultural fever' can be difficult to define.
The dichotomy of normal & abnormal
- Researchers have attempted to define normality through statistical distributions and social norms.
- Normal is perceived as the "average" behaviour or traits that members of a group adhere to or strive towards, much like a school dress code. Those who dress differently could be seen as abnormal.
- Some theories suggest that normal traits are the ones we've evolved through natural selection.
- Despite the disagreements about what constitutes normality, the labels of normal and abnormal are significant in our daily lives. They guide our behaviours, judgments and even lead to stigmatization.
Morality, normalcy and stigmatization
- The connection between normal and good can be problematic. Just because a behaviour is 'normal' doesn't necessarily mean it's good, like the trend of cyberbullying.
- Labels like abnormal, deviant or pathological can marginalize individuals or groups. It's essential to consider the context, such as neurological diversity and sexual orientation.
Historical context – the banality of evil
- The aftermath of the Second World War prompted deep questioning of the human capacity to do evil.
- The war crimes trial of Adolf Eichmann brought forth the concept of "the banality of evil" by Hannah Arendt. Eichmann seemed terrifyingly normal despite his heinous acts, much like a friendly neighbour who always pays his taxes, but kicks his dog when nobody's watching.
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Theory of Knowledge
Chapter 8 - The Human Sciences(AoK)
Redefining 'Normal': Society's Shifting Views & Controversies
775 words
4 mins read
Last edited on 14th Jun 2024
Table of content
The complexity of 'normal'
- "Normal" is a term that's fluid, changing as per the perceptions of different societies and human sciences. * What's deemed normal in one culture may be labeled as deviant or abnormal in another.
- The notion of normality lacks a standardized criterion, unlike disease study where symptoms and pathology give a defined line of "normal" vs. "abnormal". For example, a fever is not normal, but a 'cultural fever' can be difficult to define.
The dichotomy of normal & abnormal
- Researchers have attempted to define normality through statistical distributions and social norms.
- Normal is perceived as the "average" behaviour or traits that members of a group adhere to or strive towards, much like a school dress code. Those who dress differently could be seen as abnormal.
- Some theories suggest that normal traits are the ones we've evolved through natural selection.
- Despite the disagreements about what constitutes normality, the labels of normal and abnormal are significant in our daily lives. They guide our behaviours, judgments and even lead to stigmatization.
Morality, normalcy and stigmatization
- The connection between normal and good can be problematic. Just because a behaviour is 'normal' doesn't necessarily mean it's good, like the trend of cyberbullying.
- Labels like abnormal, deviant or pathological can marginalize individuals or groups. It's essential to consider the context, such as neurological diversity and sexual orientation.
Historical context – the banality of evil
- The aftermath of the Second World War prompted deep questioning of the human capacity to do evil.
- The war crimes trial of Adolf Eichmann brought forth the concept of "the banality of evil" by Hannah Arendt. Eichmann seemed terrifyingly normal despite his heinous acts, much like a friendly neighbour who always pays his taxes, but kicks his dog when nobody's watching.
Unlock the Full Content!
Dive deeper and gain exclusive access to premium files of Theory of Knowledge. Subscribe now and get closer to that 45 🌟