ISD I – Ethics/Humanities/Health Law

Session 1

Paper Topics

As part of the E/H/HL requirements for the ISD I course, students are required to write a 4-5 page essay (8-10 page essay, if not also doing the journal assignment). This essay should be submitted to Andrew Latus by Monday, June 9^th. Some possible topics are below. More will be provided in subsequent sessions.

1. The World Health Organization defines health as follows:

“Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” (from the Preamble to the Constitution of the WHO)

What are the implications of a definition like this? Is it an adequate definition? If not, what would be a better definition? Defend your answer.

2. Are the concepts of health and/or disease normative or non-normative concepts?

3. What are the implications of the heart for healing?

4. Reflect on any volunteer work you are undertaking while in medical school. [If you wish to write on this topic, see John Crellin.]

You may also write on a topic of your own choosing. Please see either John Crellin or Andrew Latus to discuss a topic.