Pathology in the Age of Violence : Mainz 1916 to 1946

Abstract

Based on recent historical research, the context of mentality plays an important role in understanding the history of medicine and pathology in Nazi Germany. What impact did the "Age of Violence" have on the work of pathology in Germany between 1914 and 1945? What does that mean for modern recent pathology? Based on printed as well as archival material (City and University Archives, Mainz), the history of pathology in Mainz is presented as a case study. Mainz, as apart of aborderland region, faced experiences of verbal and bodily violence, which moulded the work of pathologists in the German Empire extensively. These developments bolstered the collaboration of pathologists with the Nazi state. Inquiries regarding medical ethics should not be restricted to the dispositions of actors and consequences for the suffering. In contrast, influences of mentality-driven contexts should be considered equally. The latter should be supportive to the maintenance of ademocratic medicine.