The Sociology and Politics of Health

Health care systems, the role of health professionals and the experience of health and illness are all undergoing change and development as we enter the twenty-first century. The Sociology and Politics of Health is a collection of key readings through which to explore the sociological and political dimensions of health, illness and health care. Combining classic pieces with more up-to-date contributions, it includes examples taken from current domestic and international initiatives and draws on humanist, materialist, feminist and constructionalist perspectives. The Sociology and Politics of Health covers: * ideology and policy * social stratification * professionalisation * the experience of health and illness. * This reader offers health studies students, nurses and other health professionals an invaluable introduction to an increasingly important field of social inquiry.