Anthropology: Drugs & Health Across Cultures

Explores intermediate level topics in biological anthropology. May be repeated for credit with different content. Sample topics include: Bioarchaeology of Identities, Biological Anthropology of Race and Gender, Human Variation. Topics vary by offering; periodic offering at intervals that may exceed four years. Prerequisite: ANTH 1400.

Prereq enforced by the system: ANTH 1400; or ANTH 1100 which is not enforced PACE students by permission and override

Psychoactive substance use, or drug use, is a rapidly growing global health concern. This course examines local and global case studies of substance use and its treatment through Global Health frameworks for social justice and health equity. Topics include traditional drug use and colonialism; the co-morbidity of drug use with other mental health conditions; the relationship between drug use and poverty/social inequity; the War on Drugs; available treatment options; and emerging technologies to aid recovery.

The course will be a combination of lectures and discussion. Per University policy regarding work required for a three credit hour course, you will be expected to do 1-3 chapters of reading prior to each class session. You will also be expected to engage in brief class discussions and activities, both in and outside of class time.

Grades are based on attendance and participation, reflection papers, as well as a midterm and final exam.