Medicinal Controversies - Ethical Challenges in Medicine
CRN
Course Number
Credits
Description
This course will explore controversial areas of medicine. Conversations will be robust and collaborative, using models such as values clarification and The Circle Way. Specific themes will include abortion, medical aid in dying, and gender affirming medical care. Other themes, based on time and student interest, may include vaccination, medical fatphobia, menopause, procedural pain management, sexism, racism, and ableism in medicine, substance use disorders, medical uncertainty, and medical economics.
Prerequisites
FAIR 206A or lab science course
Materials Fee
Texts
- Lester, C. N. Trans Like Me: Conversations for All of Us. First US ed., Seal Press, 2017
- Sella, Shelley. Beyond Limits: Stories of Third-Trimester Abortion Care. Beacon Press, 2025.
- Other readings will be made available on Canvas.
Credit/Evaluation
S/NX grading; narrative evaluation required for credit.
Attendance: Students are expected to be present, prepared, and engaged in discussion. More than 3 absences will place the student at risk of not passing the class.
Assignments: Weekly journal reflections. Final presentation on a relevant topic approved by instructor.