BSOC 2101

Plagues and People

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2023-2024. Courses of Study 2023-2024 is scheduled to publish mid-June.

Human diseases have affected human lives and society through history. This course focuses on the pathogens, parasites, and arthropods causing human plagues through multiple perspectives (biomedical, social, ethical, cultural). Those plagues that have had the greatest impact on human culture and expression are emphasized. Lectures are supplemented with readings and videos . Also addresses emerging diseases, bioterrorism, and future plagues. 

When Offered Fall.

Satisfies Requirement This class may be taken as an elective for the Global Health Minor.

Comments As a 3 credit course it will count toward supplementary science distribution in Arts and Sciences (PBSS-AS) and satisfies the Physical and Life Sciences requirement in Agriculture and Life Sciences. This class may be taken as an elective for the Global Health Minor.

• 1.1 able to explain the biology, transmission and factors that lead to disease outbreaks based on investigation of in-depth examples from the class. 1.2. aware of the sources that report emerging infectious diseases and how the media can influence public perception of diseases. 1.3. able to explain the historical impact of some key infectious diseases. 1.4. know some of the key people who have contributed to or impacted historical disease outbreaks (e.g. Typhoid Mary). 1.5. able to describe how bioterror agents are categorized and some pathogens and/or parasites that may cause future epidemics.
• 2.1. able to describe key factors (e.g. reassortment, mutation, host shifting) that can lead to the emergence of a new pathogen or parasite. 2.2. able to provide specific examples of how pathogens have cause major outbreaks (pandemic flu, SARS).
• 3.1. able to discuss the ways some arthropod-borne infections have impacted human health in the past, present and future. 3.2. able to explain to others (those not knowledgeable about the topic) the impacts of arthropods on human health.
• 4.1 able to objectively understand and articulate the facts and fears surrounding disease outbreaks. 4.2 able to engage in informed debate about issues related to disease outbreaks.

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