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health.culture.rights.science.planet

molecular and chemical foundation. cultural foundation. senior project proposal.

molecular and chemical foundation

*Biology 233: Genetics

Genetics is of central importance to the foundation of this major. Genes are the basis for the physical differences we use so casually to distinguish ourselves from one another. Genetics determines how we appear on the outside, which is linked in part to our cultural identification. However, we know that genes also play a role in genetic disorders and also particular susceptibilities to diseases. Genetics is in many ways a bridge between the two components of this major, due to its contribution to disease manifestation and physical appearance.

In order to comprehend what happens when the body malfunctions, it is essential to understand how it works when in perfect operating conditions. In a way, a body is similar to a culture. It begins with an individual cell that joins similar individuals to perform a function. These groups form structures, and structures become larger, more complicated, more interconnected. In the end, the body formed appears as one entity, though there is incomparable activity, thought, and change going on beneath the surface.

This course further probes the genetics basis of disease. The first half of the semester focused entirely on one gene and its interactions and effects in generating cancer phenotypes, while the second half centered on the many roles of RNA, an essential step in the formation of proteins that make up the body and help it to function properly.

* Organic Chemistry – Semester II

This course introduces the ideas of reactions between bases and sugars that can make up DNA, run our metabolism and form the polymers necessary for life.

* Chemistry 379: Biochemistry I

This course helps to provide in depth understanding of cellular processes from a chemical level. The idea of metabolism is heavily focused upon in the course, which lies at the center of all life. Further, the structure of DNA, proteins, RNA and enzymes are discussed in depth. All of these elements serve to give life to humans.

*Biology 341: Cell Physiology

This course replaced my initial suggestion of Biochemistry II. Registration for Cell Physiology allowed for acquisition of similar material. However, selecting this course allowed registration in Medical Anthropology.

*Emerging Diseases in Asia
This course is the St. Olaf professor course for Term in Asia, and will be taught throughout the five month long experience. We will focus on the microscopic mechanism of action for many of the diseases – how they are transmitted, the structure of the pathogen, and treatment options. Further, we will learn about each of the diseases in context, studying the cultural consideration surrounding emerging diseases.

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cultural foundation

* Biology: Peruvian Medical Odyssey

This experience was a chance to travel to Peru and experience the healthcare system of the country. Although this could potentially fit in either of the two foundations of my major, I found that the medical knowledge I gained was secondary by far to the experience I had with the people of Peru. In essence, this course provided a direction in my pursuit of medicine.

* Anthropology: Contemporary Native American Issues

This course raised numerous issues in my field of vision. Although we spent time on many subjects, extensive time was spent in discussing modern perception of Native Americans, and the confusion that Caucasians exhibit in understanding their culture. It is all too easy to reduce Native American culture to peace pipes and feathered headdresses, which is an extreme disservice to both physicians and Native Americans themselves. Also included was a study of the diversity within Native American culture.

* Hinduism

Some cultures are best understood through examination of their religion – it contributes incredibly to a view of themselves as a people. For Hindus, the belief in reincarnation contributes significantly to the perception of disease and the view of the human body. The body is something to be left behind – a trapping of this world that is left for liberation. This concept is incredibly difficult for the Western world to understand.

*Medical Anthropology

This course will serve to provide the foundations for researching cultural medicine. Readings include mechanical background on how to undertake field research. Additionally, the course will provide exposure to anthropological theory that can be examined in this field research.

Thai society will also be a part of the Term in Asia program, and will include study of the evolution of Thai culture. We will study education, family organization, and politics, which all fit nicely into healthcare. Each one of these factors are instrumental in healthcare delivery. While taking the course, we will live with a Thai family. The course and the experience together will help to provide a first hand picture of populations I’d like to work with that goes beyond a simple academic perspective.

* Science and Religion

The dialogue between science and religion is often central in understanding a culture. In this course, we discussed the interface between beliefs and science. The lens with which many scientific issues, including healthcare, are approached is often a religious one.

*Asian Studies 397: Human Rights in and Asian Context

Although I have not yet taken a course in the Asian studies department, a discussion with the professor leads me to believe that this is the perfect blend of my interest in Asia and the major focus on cultural sensitivity. This course addresses human rights and culminates with a seminar paper. I would like to focus on differential distribution of healthcare for my paper, although my subject matter is flexible and may change as I learn more in this field.

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initial senior project proposal

In the fall, I will travel to Asia on the Term in Asia program, which I believe will be the perfect beginning to the capstone project. I plan to study on the cultural view of the body in art, medicine, and well-being. I plan to conduct my field interview through visiting hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and art museums. When I return to the United States, I would like to supplement my findings with academic research to provide a more complete picture of the workings of the culture. Ideally, I would like to speak with physicians in the United States who frequently the populations I’ve spent time with in order to determine how perceptions of culture affect local healthcare delivery.

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