HIV/AIDS: Science, Society, Myth, and Morality

In this course we will explore HIV/AIDS from a wide variety of perspectives. We will cover the science of HIV, including how the virus works to target the immune system, its discovery, and drug and vaccine design. We will consider the influence of society and disease on one another, for example, the factors contributing to or curtailing this pandemic. Other topics will include the origins of the virus, conspiracy theories, HIV/AIDS in popular culture, and ethical considerations of testing, research, and treatment. Films and guest speakers will augment in-class discussions and debates. This course counts as an elective toward the minor in Global Health.