STS 382 - Social History of Public Health

1 unit(s)

Students explore the history of public health to understand how diseases have shaped societies, influenced cultural practices, and impacted economic development, demonstrating the interconnectedness of health with broader social dynamics. We identify what worked, what didn’t, and why by examining past outbreaks and responses. Students consider how the past informs current and future public health strategies. Case studies include examples from bubonic plague, global cholera outbreaks, HIV responses in the United States and South Africa, and the eradication of smallpox. Student analysis of the past helps them to identify both patterns of inequality and successful public health interventions across different populations over time. Christie Van Horne.

Two 75-minute periods.

Not offered in 2025/26.

Course Format: CLS