Using the theme of standardisation, applied to both objects and practices, this programme proposes to explore the development of 20th century medicine by looking at the production, distribution, prescription and consumption of major classes of therapeutic agents, such as sulfa-drugs, hormones and psycho-active drugs. The aim is to assess the contribution of industrial, administrative and clinical standardisation to the 'therapeutic revolution' (1920-1990) which changed the face of Western medicine.
This programme examines the evolution of industrial standards and drug trials, along with prescription and clinical practices from a historical perspective. As standardisation is a theme common to a number of disciplines, the proposed approach will open up interdisciplinary discussion allowing fruitful exchange among researchers.
Five years from 1 March 2008 until 28 February 2013
For more information go to website