Laurence Monnais, "The Colonial Life of Pharmaceuticals: Medicines and Modernity in Vietnam" (Cambridge UP, 2019)

Laurence Monnais, "The Colonial Life of Pharmaceuticals: Medicines and Modernity in Vietnam" (Cambridge UP, 2019)

Imagine a world where the very medicines we rely on today were once tools of colonial power. In this episode of 'New Books in Drugs, Addiction and Recovery', host Marshall Poe sits down with Laurence Monnais to discuss her book, 'The Colonial Life of Pharmaceuticals: Medicines and Modernity in Vietnam'. Monnais, a Professor of History at the University of Montreal, takes us through the intricate history of medicine in Vietnam during French colonial rule.

She sheds light on how colonialism played a pivotal role in spreading modern pharmaceuticals globally. But it's not just about the drugs themselves; it's about the people behind them—colonial doctors, private pharmacists, consumers, and even traditional healers. Monnais also touches on contemporary issues like over-reliance on pharmaceuticals and drug toxicity, making her historical analysis incredibly relevant today.

If you're curious about how medicine has shaped societies or the complex layers of therapeutic options in a colonial context, this episode offers a rich tapestry of insights. Perfect for history buffs, medical professionals, or anyone interested in the social impact of pharmaceuticals.