En kropp i balans. Hormoner, läkare och förväntningar på endokrinologins framtid i Sverige 1920–1940

Sammanfattning: Since hormones entered the scientific stage in the early 20th Century they were intrinsically connected with expectations of a better future. The new molecules appeared to be the missing piece in understanding the puzzle that was the human body. Hormones exhibited an impact on bodily functions way beyond anything previously seen, they rejuvenated the old, altered sexes and cured imbeciles. The aim of this thesis is to first and foremost explore the expectations on endocrinology that were expressed in the 1920s and 1930s, primarily from the medical community. These expectations were linked to a new way of seeing and understanding the body that had shifted from the material nerves to the chemical hormones, thus creating a more malleable body in need of balance. With the possibility of now being able to manipulate and, at the core, change the chemical body’s biological preconditions, a quest for mapping the hormonal functions became even more motivated. In addition, the field of endocrinology operated in a time of social and political movements concerned with what was perceived as a degenerated and unhygienic population. Together with a burgeoning eugenic research field, the beliefs went far beyond the political realm and were deeply immersed in intellectual and educated circles. Doctors, especially, with their knowledge and authority of the human had the ability to take critical action against these poor–quality citizens. This thesis ties the desire and expectation for change and a better future, together with the emerging power to fundamentally control and alter the body through its new hormonally balanced system.