This paper introduces new developments in health geography. It examines the contested nature of health as an aspect of social and spatial relations and identities. The paper draws on critical social theories, including feminist, Marxist, postmodernist, anti-racist, kaupapa Māori, post-colonial and queer theory, to explore the ways in which gender, sexuality, ethnicity, class, (dis)ability, body size/shape and so on are integral to the social and cultural ordering of, and thinking about, health and place. What unites these various theories is precisely their critical stance vis-à-vis contemporary cultural, social, economic and political relations, and their resulting commitment to changing these relations for the better.

Drawing on new developments within contemporary health geography, the paper explores socio-spatial relations through examples drawn from a range of scales. Places discussed include the body, homes, neighbourhoods, institutions (such as schools, work and caring spaces), cities, rural spaces, and the globe. Particular attention is paid to the multiple ways in which places create and reflect social and physical well-being. These health geographies are discussed in relation to such things as the morphology of environments, the determination of personal safety, the experiences of marginalised communities, and the environmental and social aspects of spatial well-being. Discussion is encouraged, as is the formation of critical, independent ideas and opinions. Students are given the opportunity to learn independently and collaboratively in group settings via zoom, online activities and videos.

During the trimester we pay attention to a range of places including: ‘the body’, homes, institutions, communities, neighbourhoods, streetscapes, cities, rural spaces and the globe. These spaces (people and places) have health and wellbeing values that are diverse and can be contested. Contestation and resistance often erupts because certain cultural values exclude, marginalise and oppress particular social groups. These ideas are worked through in relation to various aspects of health, place and identity such as gender, sexuality, ethnicity, class, (dis)ability, and body size/shape at a range of scales from the local to the global.

The information you need to help you complete this paper will be delivered in two main ways. First, through a series of online presentations and activities which will alert you to the main themes, concepts and ideas associated with this particular study of health geographies. You will be able to think about these ideas individually but also explore them in groups, drawing on observations, experiences and readings. Second, through a programme of directed reading and activities which is your responsibility to structure and should feed into discussions, activities, assignments and the final test.

• two one hour weekly zoom meetings, content in Moodle, online activities, readings and discussion of the relevant health geographical literature.
  

Learning materials are available on Moodle for this paper. Also, we use Moodle to get in touch with class members about upcoming sessions or assessments etc. Therefore, we appreciate if you could please check Moodle regularly.

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