BETH 5102 - Philosophy of Medicine

This unit of study introduces students to the broader philosophical issues that underlie the theories and practices of medicine and the biomedical sciences. The seminar will begin by introducing the philosophy of science and medicine, epistemology, and the concepts of health, illness and disease, including debates regarding disease causation and the social construction of disease, particularly mental illness. We also examine issues relating to the generation and use of knowledge and evidence in medical science and practice, medical reasoning, including the generation and use of knowledge and evidence particularly in diagnosis and treatment, and differences between conventional and alternative/non-Western approaches to illness and healing. The final part of the seminar will focus on the epistemologies of medical research and practice, including experimental design. Learning activities include lectures, facilitated seminar discussions, online learning activities and essay assessments.

Next offered Semester 1, 2009 as a weekly seminar on Thursday evenings from 6-8pm in weeks 1-13 with e-learning support. See the timetable for class rooms.

Contact course co-ordinator
Dr Chris Jordens
Ph: +61 2 9036 3405