Humanities and Ethics of Aging

2 or 3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

This course focuses on human longevity using humanistic and ethical perspectives. Undergraduate and graduate students with interests in aging studies, humanities, bioethics, and population health are welcome to enroll. Course Description: This course explores human longevity through the humanities, ethics, and personal narratives of older people across a diverse spectrum of settings. Students will engage in interpretive inquiry to better understand how the life course and social determinants of health impact life expectancy and quality of life. Particular focus will be given to questions surrounding safety and autonomy in late life, as well as the role of creativity and the arts in aging well. Students will also complete structured debate assignments analyzing philosophical and clinical ethical issues regarding aging, dementia, disability, and intergenerational justice. Contact for further information: Gay Hanna, PhD MFA, Adjunct Professor, Aging and Health Master’s Program gph2@georgetown.edu