
Medical Apartheid: History of Medical Experimentation on Black Americans
Medical Apartheid is a history of medical experimentation and mistreatment of Black Americans, tracing the subject from slavery to the present. The 528-page reprint discusses unauthorized experiments, racist pseudoscience, the Tuskegee experiment and medical distrust. Its subject matter is deeply disturbing, so it is best suited to readers prepared for a challenging account.
At a glance
- Follows medical experimentation and mistreatment of Black Americans from colonial times to the present.
- Covers unauthorized experiments, grave-robbing, eugenics, government and institutional abuses, and the Tuskegee experiment.
- The account connects this history to distrust of medical research and the health experiences of Black Americans.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- A broad historical scope links abuses across multiple eras and institutions.
- Customer feedback describes the book as extensively researched, informative and engaging.
- Its history is relevant to readers studying medical ethics, public health and racial justice.
Cons
- The subject is emotionally difficult, with customer feedback describing the book as disturbing and heart-wrenching.
- At 528 pages, it is a substantial read rather than a brief overview.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Vintage |
|---|---|
| Edition | Reprint |
| Publication date | January 8, 2008 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 528 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 076791547X |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0767915472 |
| Weight listed | 2.31 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 5.46 x 1.09 x 8.24 inches |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers of African American history and the history of medicine.
- Medical students and readers exploring medical ethics, public health or racial justice.
- Readers seeking a detailed account of historical abuses and their effects on trust in medicine.
Less suited to
- Readers looking for a light or emotionally easy read.
- Readers seeking a short introduction rather than a full-length history.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
87% 87% - 4 stars
10% 10% - 3 stars
3% 3% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
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Customer feedback highlights the book's informative, extensively researched content and engaging writing, while also describing its emotional impact as disturbing and heart-wrenching. Those reported reactions fit a 528-page history of medical abuses and distrust, so readers seeking detailed context may value its depth, while others may find the subject difficult.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the book as informative and extensively researched.
- Feedback praises its readable, engaging writing and in-depth treatment.
Mixed feedback
- Readers report a strong emotional response, describing the account as both compelling and disturbing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Medical Apartheid about?
It traces the history of medical experimentation and mistreatment of Black Americans from slavery to the present, including the Tuskegee experiment and other institutional abuses.
How long is this edition?
The listing gives a print length of 528 pages and identifies the edition as a reprint.
Is this an emotionally difficult read?
Yes. The subject includes exploitation and abuses, and customer feedback describes the book as disturbing and heart-wrenching.
Who may find it useful?
The historical focus may interest readers of African American history, medical ethics and public health. Customer feedback particularly recommends it to medical students.
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