Social History of Medicine PDF Print

Social History of Medicine- 4 ECTS

Despina Karakatsani

Course Description

This course examines the social history of health as a branch of historical studies and medical humanities in Europe and as a new branch in modern Greece, where it has been recently expanding. The historical analysis and the experience of sickness, the relation of human to its body, the socio-political changes connected with the organisation of the public health sector, the ways and means of dealing with and overcoming health problems, the history of health of different national and social groups, the role of physicians are further analysed. The socio political conditions which made possible the implementation of medical profession are discussed in connection with the economic situation and the role of science.

Objectives

The aim of this course is to depict different national and European policies in the health sector in connection with social welfare contexts. Another aim is to make a comparative analysis of different models and policies, to examine the role of the State, of philanthropic institutions and structures, of international organizations and of different individuals with a relevant specialization. Medical discourse is analysed and compared to ideology, epistemology, political options and scientific approaches.

Learning Outcomes

Students upon completing the course should be able to:

  • Identify the basic concepts, principles and methodological tools of the social history of health
  • Analyse the content, the aims, the theoretical and practical aspects (research) of social history of medicine and health
  • Have a critical view on the role of medical institutions, structures, actors, on the sociopolitical analysis of child welfare and public health initiatives and models
  • Be able to compare state policy to European policies-trends, influences and modes and analyse the role of national and international organizations

Structure

Five (5) three-hour lectures

Students’ assessment

Assessment will be through written exams at the end of the semester. Students have the possibility to make small essays on specific subjects which will give them an additional note.

Bibliography
Borowy Iris and W. Gruner, (dir.),(2005) Facing Illness in Troubled Times, Peter Lang, Frakfurt 2005.

Grmek Mirko D., Fantini Bernandino (dir.),(2000) Histoire de la pensée médicale en Occident, τόμ. 3: Du Romantisme à la science moderne, Le Seuil, Paris.
Theodorou Th., Karakatsani D., (2010) «Hygiene Imperatives»: Medical supervision and child welfare in the beginning of the 20th century, Athens, Dionikos.