Use of the genealogical method in the exploration of chronic illness: a research note

Abstract

This paper briefly describes how the genealogical method, as derived from Foucault's work, might be used to explore the problem of chronic illness. The genealogical method is differentiated from other qualitative methods, from epidemiology, and from the history of ideas. Finally, the particular relationship, within the genealogical method, of method itself and its object of study is outlined.