The Sociology of Health and Illness: Critical Perspectives

The Sociology of Health and Illness: Critical Perspectives, edited by two experts, covers timely health issues such as eating disorders, inequality, race, class, and gender, the pharmaceutical industry, health information on the Internet, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 864 pages
Publication date: 09 August 2023
Publisher: SAGE Publications Inc

The Sociology of Health and Illness: Critical Perspectives is a comprehensive anthology of readings from the scholarly literature on health, medicine, and health care. Edited by two esteemed experts in the field, the Eleventh Edition of this textbook is designed for medical sociology courses and delves into some of the most pressing health issues of our time. These include topics such as eating disorders, the impact of inequality on health, the influence of race, class, and gender on health outcomes, the pharmaceutical industry, the availability of health information on the Internet, and the profound effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The book offers a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from various social sciences, including sociology, psychology, economics, and public health. Each chapter provides a critical analysis of the relevant topics, exploring the social, cultural, and economic factors that contribute to health disparities and inequalities. The authors employ a range of theoretical frameworks and empirical research to shed light on the complex dynamics of health and illness.

One of the key strengths of The Sociology of Health and Illness is its ability to provide a holistic understanding of health and illness. The book recognizes that health is not solely a matter of individual behavior or medical treatment but is also influenced by broader social, cultural, and economic factors. It explores how social structures, power relations, and cultural norms shape health outcomes and how individuals navigate the healthcare system and its complexities.

Another notable aspect of the book is its attention to the role of the pharmaceutical industry in shaping health and illness. The authors examine the marketing strategies, drug development processes, and pricing policies of pharmaceutical companies, raising concerns about their impact on public health and the accessibility of healthcare. They also explore the ethical implications of pharmaceutical interventions and the challenges faced by patients and healthcare providers in navigating the complex web of pharmaceutical regulations and policies.

The Sociology of Health and Illness also addresses the growing importance of health information on the Internet. The authors explore how the Internet has transformed the way we access and share health information, both positively and negatively. They discuss the benefits of online health communities, the risks associated with misinformation, and the challenges of ensuring the accuracy and reliability of health information.

In conclusion, The Sociology of Health and Illness: Critical Perspectives is an essential resource for medical sociology courses and anyone interested in understanding the complex interplay between health, medicine, and society. The book offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to health and illness, providing a rich understanding of the social, cultural, and economic factors that shape health outcomes. By exploring the critical perspectives presented in this anthology, readers can gain a deeper appreciation of the challenges and opportunities facing the healthcare system and work towards creating a more equitable and just society.

Weight: 1540g
Dimension: 231 x 187 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781071850824
Edition number: 11 Revised edition