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School of Sociology · ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences
Why are health inequalities so persistent despite local, national, and global interventions? This course will examine this question sociologically, drawing on a range of perspectives on health, illness and medicine. The course explores the social, political, cultural and economic forces that shape contemporary experiences of health, introducing key concepts such as the social determinants of health, social practices, clinical encounters, biopolitics, risk and stigma. Importantly, we will take a reflective approach to knowledge, examining the different ways inequality is measured, understood and acted on. Indicative topics include: geopolitics and governance; communicable and non-communicable diseases; risky consumption; racialisation, sex/gender, disability and social class; and ageing and death.
Participation in weekly seminars
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
Class presentation & faciliation on relevant text (500 word written component)
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
Research project proposal (5 minute class presentation, 4-5 powerpoint slides)
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4
Research project (written paper or podcast) (5000 words or 20 minute podcast with 2,000 word script)
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4
Research project reflection and rationale (500 words)
Learning outcomes 2, 3, 4
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including: - Face-to-face component (either in-person or online): one 3-hour workshop per week - Approximately 8 hours per week of self-directed study, including course readings and assignments.
There is no prescribed text. Readings will be provided on canvas.