Critical Social Inquiry 0226 - Alternative Medicine: S. Asia

South Asia's diverse array of Alternative Medicine and Indigenous Healing Practices is explored from a historical and contemporary perspective. The study is not limited to the variety of practices that are thriving in the subcontinent, but also in the ways in which the different healing practices originating from that region is co-opted, understood and practiced in the Global North. The class looks at medical and healing systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Tibetan Medicine, Sidhha, Tantra, to name a few. The class also looks at the sociological, historical, cultural, religious roots and impacts of these medical/healing practices. The complexities of power and history that characterize the field and practices of these diverse healing practices from the ancient times to modern day is examined.

Power, Community and Social Justice Multiple Cultural Perspectives Independent Work Writing and Research Students are expected to spend 6-8 hours weekly on work and preparation outside of class time.