Stanford Root

Schedule

Stanford Root

Schedule

MED 259

Plagues of the Past & Present - The Impact of Infectious Diseases on Society

UNITS:1
GRADING:Medical Satisfactory/No Credit
LEVEL:Graduate
GER:—

This course explores the profound ways infectious diseases have shaped human history, societies, and cultures. From the bubonic plague to COVID-MED 19, we will examine the social, cultural, and political ripple effects of major epidemics and pandemics throughout history. This course provides a deep understanding of the complex interplay between infectious diseases and the human experience, both past and present. Ideal for those interested in medicine, history, or the humanities, this course offers a unique perspective on the enduring power of plagues to shape the world. Fall Quarter: Class will be held on Wednesday afternoons 1:MED 30 - 3:MED 20 - NINE consecutive Wednesdays starting September MED 23: Sept MED 23/MED 30, Oct 7/MED 24/MED 21/MED 28, Nov 4/MED 11/MED 18.

Syllabus for selected term:
View Autumn 2026 Syllabus

Sections

1 Term
Seminar 1Open
ID: 22716
1 / 24 enrolled
DAYS:Wednesday
TIME:1:30 PM – 3:20 PM
LOCATION:Li Ka Shing Center, room 208
INSTRUCTOR:
Nevins, Andrew
1unit

MED 259: Plagues of the Past & Present - The Impact of Infectious Diseases on Society

1 units · Medical Satisfactory/No Credit

This course explores the profound ways infectious diseases have shaped human history, societies, and cultures. From the bubonic plague to COVID-19, we will examine the social, cultural, and political ripple effects of major epidemics and pandemics throughout history. This course provides a deep understanding of the complex interplay between infectious diseases and the human experience, both past and present. Ideal for those interested in medicine, history, or the humanities, this course offers a unique perspective on the enduring power of plagues to shape the world. Fall Quarter: Class will be held on Wednesday afternoons 1:30 - 3:20 - NINE consecutive Wednesdays starting September 23: Sept 23/30, Oct 7/24/21/28, Nov 4/11/18.

Offered in Autumn 2026 at Stanford University.

Autumn 2026 sections

  • Seminar — Wednesday 1:30 PM – 3:20 PM — Li Ka Shing Center, room 208 — Nevins, Andrew (Graduate)

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