GEND 2017 - Gender, Bodies and Health II

This course explores the social and historical context of understandings of 'the body', gender and health. In particular it investigates the role that the concept of biology and biological difference plays in the construction of gender, and of health/illness. The course presents a range of understandings of embodiment and their relationship to gender. Topics will include the exploration of changing understandings of reproduction, the immune system, heredity and psychosomosis and in doing so will focus on a number of topical health issues such as, infertility, impotence, cancer, obesity, and anxiety disorders. The course complements studies in public health, psychology and social policy. It draws from the disciplines of sociology, anthropology and the history and philosophy of science.