Course Overview
Survey of Indigenous medical systems with an emphasis on Latin American ethnobotany and use of medicinal plants used as part of the therapeutic process. Examines the role of healers in orienting medical encounters in community and clinical spaces. Introduces theoretical perspectives and ways of knowing developed by Indigenous healers, scholars and practitioners.
Drawing on Medical Anthropology Ethnography, students will explore a variety of forms of healing among rural and urban Indigenous communities. A particular focus on Intercultural Health will allow the students to analyze past and contemporary medical landscapes where patients encounter Indigenous and Western Medicine. Students will learn about the complexities of urban and rural indigenous healing settings and their sociopolitical significance in contexts of state biomedical interventions.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to
1) Identify and learn about indigenous medicines and their historical background.
2) Explain the particularities of indigenous framings of health and healing practices.
3) Describe the importance of the role of the healer within indigenous societies.
4) Analyze the cultural dimension of medicine in the context of intercultural medical encounters.
5) Develop research on Indigenous knowledge about medicinal plants.
6) Evaluate current global processes impacting the health of indigenous peoples.
Assessment of Student work
Participation 15%
Small group discussion, brief in-class exercises (8 total)
Pre-lecture assignments (best 7) 20%
Individual research assignment #1 20% Tracing Healing Pathways: Indigenous Practices and Sacred Spaces
Individual research assignment #2
"Plants of the Gods" 30%
Class presentation on assignment #2 15%