SOC 84A: Health, Community, Society: The Sociology of Health and IllnessInstructor: Sanchita Dasgupta Prerequisites: May not be taken for credit by students who took SOC 191a in prior years. Course Description: This course provides an overview of sociological theories of medicine, health, and illness. We draw on historical evidence and case studies of specific diseases to highlight important sociological theories such as medicalization, professionalization, biomedicalization, and pharmaceuticalization. We study how social inequalities related to class, gender, race, and sexuality translate into disparities in health outcomes and experiences at population and individual levels. At the same time, we explore how racial, class, and gender inequalities are embedded in medical and public health practice and knowledge production. Although the primary focus of this course is medicine, health, and illness in the US, we will also explore global perspectives. This course will serve as an important introduction to medicine as a social institution and the politics of health and illness for students who are considering careers in medicine or public/global health as well as those with general interests in medicine, health, and society. Session: Session I Day: T, W, Th Time: 1:50pm - 4:20pm Credit Hours: 4 Credits Course Format: On-Campus Course for Summer 2025 Brandeis Graduation Requirement Fulfilled: SS Enrollment Limit: Course Classification: Undergraduate Level Course Course Tuition: $3,700 Course Fees: None Open to High School Students: Yes |
