Sociology and Criminology

Medicine and the Body

Module code: L4121
Level 6
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Workshop
Assessment modes: Essay, Portfolio

This module critically engages with the conceptualisation and treatment of the body in medicine, and the ways in which those shape and are shaped by the broader politics of the body in the contemporary world. It draws on concepts from sociological, feminist, queer, postcolonial and posthuman theories, as well as nursing and bioethics.

You’ll engage with debates around, for example:

• the surveillance and commodification of bodies and body parts
• the social impact of biomedical innovations such as organ transplantation, surgical interventions and enhancement
• blame and responsibility for health states
• approaches to treatment of mental health and disability
• the diseased, distressed and dying body.

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of sociological theories and concepts related to the body in the context of medicine
• Demonstrate a critical awareness of contemporary debates and empirical evidence about the body’s position in medical endeavours
• Use appropriately both contemporary/historical events and conceptual/theoretical work to produce coherent and detailed written work for an academic audience