Summer 2003

AMS f357 • Medical Geography

Course Description

This course will introduce students to the intricate and intimate relationships between humans and infectious diseases. We will study how diseases and epidemics have influenced human history and we will also analyse how human modifications of the natural environment and of production systems have changed disease patterns globally. Focusing on zoonoses (diseases transmitted from non-human animals to human animals such as Rabies and BSE [Mad Cow Disease]), we will also examine emerging and emergent diseases and the critical importance they play in the global arena today.

Grading Policy

Two one-hour exams, quizzes, one book review and a short paper. Short in-class writing assignments may also be given. Attendance is required.

Texts

Desowitz, Robert S. (1981) New Guinea Tapeworms and Jewish Grandmothers: Tales of Parasites and Peoples. New York: W.W. Norton. Meade, Melinda and Robert Earickson (2000) Medical Geography. New York: Guilford Press. Second Edition. Platt, Anne E. (1996) Infecting Ourselves: How Environmental Social Disruptions Trigger Disease. WorldWatch Paper 129. Washington, D.C.: WorldWatch Institute. Other readings and articles will be placed on reserve and/or on the course web page.

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