The Impact of Religion on the Eradication of Leprosy
Description/Abstract/Artist Statement
Leprosy is a disease that has, unfortunately, stood the test of time. With an astounding rate of immunity worldwide, and the availability of therapy that can both prevent and cure the disease, the questions stands: why has it not been eradicated? In this paper, the definition, history, treatment, and changing social perception of leprosy will be examined. While multiple religions will be discussed, an emphasis will be placed on the relationship between Christianity and leprosy. The paper will conclude by hypothesizing that the stigma attached to the disease via historic religious texts has prevented the eradication of leprosy.
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Annette Finley-Croswhite
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Disciplines
Bacterial Infections and Mycoses | Comparative Methodologies and Theories | Critical and Cultural Studies | History of Science, Technology, and Medicine
Session Title
College of Arts & Letters 4
Location
Learning Commons @ Perry Library Room 1313
Start Date
2-8-2020 10:15 AM
End Date
2-8-2020 11:15 AM
The Impact of Religion on the Eradication of Leprosy
Learning Commons @ Perry Library Room 1313
Leprosy is a disease that has, unfortunately, stood the test of time. With an astounding rate of immunity worldwide, and the availability of therapy that can both prevent and cure the disease, the questions stands: why has it not been eradicated? In this paper, the definition, history, treatment, and changing social perception of leprosy will be examined. While multiple religions will be discussed, an emphasis will be placed on the relationship between Christianity and leprosy. The paper will conclude by hypothesizing that the stigma attached to the disease via historic religious texts has prevented the eradication of leprosy.