The book explores the dual nature of public health as both a moral force and a scientific discipline in modern society. It examines how public health rituals unite people amidst diversity, serving as a replacement for traditional religions. The tension between scientific evidence and the needs of vulnerable populations highlights the challenges faced by underrepresented workers. The author advocates for a collective response to the impacts of capitalism and globalization, emphasizing the need for a redistributive social program to address health and social inequalities.
Containing and Expanding Therapeutic Possibilities
162 stránek
6 hodin čtení
Focusing on the sociological aspects of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), the book examines the global forces and institutional influences that shape its practice in contemporary society. It delves into various therapeutic environments to understand the constraints and opportunities that impact the acceptance and integration of alternative medicine. Through this exploration, it highlights the complex interactions between society, culture, and health practices.
Drug Entanglements and Pharmaceuticalised Governance
196 stránek
7 hodin čtení
The book delves into how pharmaceuticals increasingly govern our lives, examining the moral, social, and political dynamics that influence their use. It highlights the interactional aspects of medication consumption and its broader implications on society, encouraging readers to reflect on the complex relationship between health and governance.
This book comprehensively explores social, political and cultural dimensions of health in contemporary society. It addresses many issues and pertinent questions, including the following: Are we over diagnosed and over medicated? How can patients participate in their own care? Do pharmaceutical companies coerce us into medication regimes? What drives inequalities in health outcomes? What is the experience of health care for indigenous communities? Why do different countries have such different health care systems? How do we respond to life-changing conditions? Can we achieve a ‘good death’? How do new genetics shape our identities? Is public health a force of liberation or disempowerment? The book incorporates the range of levels of influence on health, covering individual patient experiences, the health professions, multinational corporations, the state, global organisations as well as examining trends in social organisation, cultural expression and technological developments. It volume provides an accessible, yet in-depth, overview and discussion of the sociology of health. The chapters include an illustrative case study and further readings relating to the topic.
