Published by Duke University Press, this compelling work offers an immersive exploration into the controversial concept of “excited delirium syndrome.” Authored by Aisha M. Beliso-De Jesús, a leading anthropologist, the book aims to unravel the intricate ties between this flawed medical diagnosis and the systemic issues of racial violence, particularly against Black and Brown communities in the United States. With a substantial length of 320 pages, the text is carefully structured, providing a rich narrative interwoven with empirical research and personal insights, making it an essential addition to the contemporary dialogues surrounding racial justice, medical ethics, and law enforcement practices.
The design of the book is straightforward yet aesthetically pleasing, following the conventions of scholarly publications while ensuring accessibility for a broad audience. Its dimensions of 15.88 x 1.91 x 23.5 cm and a weight of 431 grams make it portable, suitable for both academic settings and casual reading environments. Furthermore, with an ISBN-10 of 1478030550 and ISBN-13 of 978-1478030553, locating this publication is seamless for those looking to delve into its academic rigor and profound social implications.
The core premise of “Excited Delirium” rests on the interrogation of the genesis and the ongoing implications of the medical label assigned to those who suffer fatal outcomes during police interactions. Wetli's initial assertion of the syndrome in 1980 has since been weaponized to exonerate law enforcement actions, often depicting Black individuals as endowed with “superhuman strength” resulting from drug use. Dr. Beliso-De Jesús meticulously dismantles this narrative, illustrating how it serves as a tool of systemic racism that deflects accountability away from state-sanctioned violence, instead placing the blame squarely on the victims. The text employs a critical lens, combining interdisciplinary approaches from anthropology, medical studies, and law enforcement theories.
What sets “Excited Delirium” apart from other academic texts is its integrative methodology, which includes auto-ethnographic elements that amplify the voices of the victims and their stories. This personal touch provides the narrative with an emotional depth that resonates across various disciplines, from sociology to healthcare advocacy. Readers can expect not only a clinical examination of the subject matter but also an engaging narrative that brings to life the experiences and struggles of those affected by these medical and legal constructs. This dual approach ensures that the work remains both informative and compelling, facilitating a better understanding of complex systemic issues.
When compared to similar academic works, “Excited Delirium” stands out for its unique combination of scholarly references and personal storytelling. Many texts focused on institutional racism tend to be exclusively data-driven or heavily theoretical. Dr. Beliso-De Jesús’s approach bridges this gap, offering a narrative style reminiscent of memoir while retaining the rigor of academic discourse. As the public increasingly seeks to comprehend and address the intersections of race, violence, and medicine, this book emerges as a vital resource for both scholars and practitioners committed to social justice.
In conclusion, “Excited Delirium” not only serves to illuminate a somewhat obscured topic within the realms of anthropology and medicine but also acts as a clarion call for systemic change within law enforcement and medical practices. It compels readers to confront uncomfortable truths about racial violence and medical diagnoses while encouraging a reevaluation of the structures supporting these narratives. The importance of this publication cannot be overstated; it is a significant contribution to the ongoing discussions around racism, the medicalization of violence, and the cultural narratives that underlie contemporary American society.
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