Sociology and Anthropology seminar Series: Dr Caragh Brosnan
Alternative knowledge in the University
The School of Humanities and Social Science Sociology and Anthropology Seminar Series presents Dr Caragh Brosnan, who will present her paper, "Alternative knowledge in the University: science, sceptics, and complementary medicine degrees."
Abstract
In 2012, debate erupted in the Australian media over the teaching of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) degrees in universities, echoing an earlier campaign in the UK. Biomedical lobbyists argued that CAM was based on ‘pseudoscience’, rather than evidence, and had no place in a university. In sociology, university credentials, and the specialist knowledge they represent, are considered important for establishing and maintaining professional autonomy. CAM's inclusion in universities is therefore seen as evidence of its increased professional status.
However, little is known about the status of CAM professions within universities, and how CAM knowledge is shaped in these settings. Prior research on the professionalization of CAM occupations points to recurring tensions between retaining traditional knowledge and incorporating science. This seminar presents findings from a 3-year study of CAM within universities in Australia and the UK, involving interviews with academics, practitioners and regulators, and observation of teaching and accreditation activities. It will discuss: the current status of CAM disciplines within the university sector; the roles that science, evidence and traditional knowledge play in CAM degrees; the level of autonomy CAM professions retain within universities; and, the implications of CAM’s status within universities for the professions themselves.
Dr Caragh Brosnan is a Senior Lecturer in Health Sociology in the School of Humanities and Social Science. In 2013, she was awarded an ARC Discovery Early Career Research Award for the project ‘Complementary and alternative medicine degrees: new configurations of knowledge, professional autonomy and the university’. She is also Visiting Research Fellow in the University of Technology Sydney's Faculty of Health.
Contact: caragh.brosnan@newcastle.edu.au
This is a free event. All welcome.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.