Iain Morland in Conversation

Join Blackwell’s Manchester for a discussion on Intersex, as writer and scholar Iain Morland appears in conversation with Dr Ben Nichols, in partnership with the University of Manchester’s Centre for Sexuality Studies.

Morland’s book examines the medical treatment of intersex people—those born with sex characteristics that do not fit typical definitions of male or female—and the long-standing practice of surgically altering children’s bodies to align with binary expectations. Despite growing criticism from patient groups, scholars and international organisations, these interventions remain widespread.

Drawing on both personal experience and academic research, Morland explores the lasting physical and emotional impact of such procedures, as well as the broader cultural and psychological forces that sustain them. The book interrogates ideas of normality, autonomy and care, offering a nuanced account of the relationships between medicine, identity and society.

Combining critical theory, psychology and philosophy, Intersex presents a powerful and accessible challenge to established practices, and opens up new ways of thinking about sex, gender and embodiment. It has been recognised as a finalist for the Lambda Literary Award for LGBTQ+ Studies.

Iain Morland is a leading figure in critical intersex studies, with a PhD from Royal Holloway, University of London. He has held academic positions at Cardiff University and the University of the Arts London, and is coauthor of Fuckology: Critical Essays on John Money’s Diagnostic Concepts.