A History of Medicine.

Catalog description

This course begins by objectively examining ancient medical systems across the globe: Chinese, Ayurvedic, Native American, and comes to focus on the Greek tradition in the West. Class discussions include the transmission of medical knowledge through Arab, Jewish, and medieval Christian authorities, and the impact of the discovery of the New World. The second half of the course traces the influence of the scientific revolution and the development of modern medicine in the 19th century and 20th centuries. Particular emphasis is placed on the subfields of physiology, nutrition and herbal lore; in the second half of the course emphasis is on anatomy, pathology and surgery. Biology, Pre-med. and Pharmacy students are encouraged to enroll, as well as non-science majors. No prerequisites or specialized knowledge are required. ( GE2B , GEWE )