Unnatural Causes

This seminar focuses on the underlying causes of the "crisis" in health in the United States (US). The US spends more on health care than any other nation, yet it ranks poorly on nearly every measure of health status from infant mortality to longevity and from adult heights to hypertension. What explains this paradox? In addition to poor average health, deplorable gaps in health persist by race and socioeconomic class. How do the lived experience of race, racism, and class literally get under the skin and lead to illness? Starting with an historical and global perspective, we will explore the epidemiological data on declining relative health in the US. We will then critically evaluate theories and biocultural processes that might link larger political and social change to individual diseases. We will also end by evaluating current propositions on sustainable ways to improve reduce health disparities and improve health. Prerequisite: Must have taken 3 or more courses in the Five College "Culture, Health and Science" program.