Non-fiction Book Group: Empire Of Normality: Neurodiversity and Capitalism by Robert Chapman

‘A vital book that kindles the flames of a Marxist neurodivergent revolution.’ –  Beatrice Adler-Bolton, co-author of Health Communism

Our book group is open to all. Attend every meeting, occasionally or just once in your life. All we ask is that you read the book in advance and take part in the discussion. There’s a short introduction by a member of staff, a group regular, or someone we know with a special interest in the book in question.

This quarter we’ll be reading and discussing Empire of Normality: Neurodiversity and Capitalism by Robert Chapman

Neurodiversity is on the rise. Awareness and diagnoses have exploded in recent years, but we are still missing a wider understanding of how we got here and why. Beyond simplistic narratives of normativity and difference, this groundbreaking book exposes the very myth of the ‘normal’ brain as a product of intensified capitalism.

Exploring the rich histories of the neurodiversity and disability movements, Robert Chapman shows how the rise of capitalism created an ’empire of normality’ that transformed our understanding of the body into that of a productivity machine.

Neurodivergent liberation is possible – but only by challenging the deepest logics of capitalism. Empire of Normality is an essential guide to understanding the systems that shape our bodies, minds and deepest selves – and how we can undo them.

‘Empire of Normality argues that a radical politics of neurodiversity needs to be central to the struggle against capitalism. Chapman explains why this is necessary, not only for neurodivergent folk, but for our collective liberation. Thought provoking, challenging and compelling.’ – Professor Hel Spandler, Editor, Asylum: the radical mental health magazine

Free event. Refreshments provided.

Our book groups – Fiction (monthly), Pagan (bi-monthly), Non-Fiction (roughly quarterly)