Last modified: 24 May 2018 12:01
This course will introduce students to the main themes of medical anthropology. Western medicine will be explored as a ‘medical system’ and compared to other forms of healing around the world. We will investigate ideas of health and illness, the history of medicine, and a number of case studies in indigenous health and healing. Coursework takes the form of a group project in which students investigate a theme in medical anthropology together. The course will suit anyone with an interest in health and well-being.
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | Second Term | Credit Points | 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | None. | Sustained Study | No |
| Co-ordinators |
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This course will introduce students to the main themes of medical anthropology. Western biomedicine will be explored as just one medical system amongst others, in which people who are ill, healers, and healing practices interact. We will investigate the cultural understanding of the body, ideas of health and illness, the history of biomedicine and its relations with other medical systems, and a number of case studies in indigenous health and healing. We will also trace the development of theoretical approaches in medical anthropology, from structural-functionalism to recent notions of embodiment and narrativity, and explore how far anthropologists can get involved in applied and clinical research.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
1st Attempt: This course is assessed by one project of 2,500 words (50%) and 1 two-hour examination (50%).
There are no assessments for this course.
Written feedback will be given on essays and projects. Work on the project begins in week 1 of the course and students will be able to discuss aspects of their project and receive verbal feedback during the weekly practicals.
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