Clinical images of the fetus : an attempt to apply the theory of Baudrillard to empirical data

This thesis is an attempt to examine and apply Jean Baudrillard's hypothesis of the changing Western European perception of, the environment which he terms the simulacrum to empirical data. Baudrillard suggests each stage in the development of capital produces its characteristic simulacrum. Based on the mode of production, socio-economic relationships lead to the formation of a dominant code of production, or system of communication, from which arises the simulacrum. This simulacrum forms what we recognise as knowledge of the environment. Thus our knowledge changes with the mode and code of production and objectivity is replaced with a form of social subjectivity. The aim of this thesis is to apply these principles to a particular item of perception and scientific knowledge, clinical images of the fetus. Examination is restricted to two modern (and postmodern) simulacra: the Simulacrum of Production and the Simulacrum of Simulation. Sources are drawn from medical writings, journals and textbooks and contemporary journalism. Methodological examination of both verbal and visual imagery is made - some sixteen images are reproduced. Discussion of the sociological views of other sociologists is made, particularly Merton and Latour. Baudrillard's rejection of objectivity is found to be supported by historical and image data.EThOS - Electronic Theses Online ServiceGBUnited Kingdo