In this course, we will explore contemporary topics in human wellbeing through the lens of U.S. public policy choices and the politics that shape them. We will consider how politics have shaped the policy choices that created and sustain modern systems of public health, air and water, education—and of course healthcare. In turn, we will consider how those systems shape and drive health. This includes examining the ways that structural racism, poverty, corporate power, and public advocacy shape public health and healthcare policy.
We will unpack the underlying political and public policy choices shaping contemporary challenges in health. Each session will begin with an interactive lecture, from the instructor or a guest speaker, and conclude with a small group discussion where we explore issues in more depth, leveraging the content and debate of the lectures, as well as practice practical skills.
