This course examines the experience of dying and death through various socio-cultural contexts. Students will be exposed to theoretical and methodological issues in the study of death and dying. Questions relating to life and living as well as dying and death will be explored and addressed. The course highlights the importance of paying attention to the experience of dying and death that is common to all species and every culture. It exposes students to the reality of dying and death that is often denied in North American culture today. The course also seeks to demystify death by allowing students to see it as a common human experience thereby equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to begin to deal with dying, death, bereavement, and grief. Students will focus on the topics of aging, the dying process, death, bereavement, and grief as they relate to individuals and caregivers. Current North American practices regarding death will be explored, as well as cross-cultural interpretations of dying, death, and bereavement. The course also addresses ethical issues related to dying and death in contemporary North American institutions and communities.Note: Restricted to Arts & Science, Therapeutic Rec and Open Studies.
