Nejla Demirkaya Book order

Exploring the interconnection between race and culture, this seminar paper analyzes the anthropological and philosophical perspectives of four influential German scholars: Immanuel Kant, Johann Gottfried Herder, Christoph Meiners, and Johann Friedrich Blumenbach. It delves into how their writings reflect the complexity of human behavior, social practices, and civilizational expressions. The study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of these concepts as they evolved in the context of the Middle Ages and Early Modern Age.

Exploring the intersection of race and caste, this essay examines how low caste movements in India challenge Brahmin dominance and aim to abolish Untouchability. It highlights the emergence of a distinct racial identity among these movements, often accompanied by a rejection of Hinduism, the source of the caste system. The analysis is rooted in social reform efforts and the broader implications for the status of lower castes, providing insight into the dynamics of identity and discrimination in modern Indian society.

The paper explores the challenges faced by Muslims in Western countries, particularly regarding mental health issues within multicultural, secular societies like the UK and USA. It examines how adherence to Islamic faith can be burdensome amid anti-Muslim sentiment, impacting psychological well-being. The study highlights the potential benefits of religion and spirituality in coping with emotional distress, while also analyzing how Islamic beliefs shape patients' self-perception and treatment choices. It underscores the intersection of faith, identity, and mental health in a context of societal bias.

The paper explores the complexities of leprosy in colonial India, highlighting the confusion surrounding its transmission and treatment during a time when modern medicine was emerging. It examines leprosy asylums and the various motives—medical, political, and religious—behind the treatment of lepers. By analyzing the interplay between colonial interests, public opinion, and missionary agendas, the study aims to uncover how these factors influenced public health policies and the colonial state's approach to managing the disease.

Focusing on the intersection of gender and disability, this seminar paper explores the Indian feminist movement's historical neglect of women with disabilities. It argues that understanding the unique challenges faced by disabled individuals, particularly women, reveals deeper insights into the burdens of femininity. The paper also emphasizes the need to consider disabled men to facilitate a comparative analysis of how gender ideologies impact individuals with disabilities. It examines how disability affects community perceptions and the performance of culturally defined gender roles.