A range of theoretical analyses - Parsonian, Marxist, Weberian and feminist - of the role of medical knowledge in modern society are examined. In the second part of the course these perspectives are developed in case studies. These case studies may reflect the interests of the students and may include the development of the medical profession, the hospital, the role of alternative medicines, the links between medical knowledge and power, as well as studies of specific diseases from a sociological perspective.

Two essays, the first of 2,000 words (40%) on theoretical perspectives on medical knowledge and the second a research essay of approximately 2,000 words (60%).

26 hours of lectures and 6 hours of tutorials.

Any two first year Sociology courses or with the permission of the lecturer.

White, K. An Introduction to Sociology of Health and Illness, London, Sage, 2002.