Health and Society

This course presents a broad introduction of sociological concepts and ideas related to the study of health and illness in the United States (US). Emphasis is placed on the relationship between social forces and health, the cultural meanings associated with health and illness, and the social behavior of health care professionals and patients. Further focus includes the political and economic consequences and effects surrounding health care and the structure of social institutions that constitute the health care industry. In addition, race, gender, age, social class, sexuality, and disability are a focal point of analysis throughout this course as these identities influence the experience of health and illness. This course is designed for sociology majors and/or those interested in better understanding health and illness as social experiences in the US.