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The sociology of pharmaceuticals: progress and prospects

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Williams, Simon J. (Simon Johnson), 1961-, Gabe, Jonathan and Davis, Peter. (2008) The sociology of pharmaceuticals: progress and prospects. Sociology of Health and Illness, Vol.30 (No.6). pp. 813-824. ISSN 0141-9889

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Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9566.2008.01123.x

Abstract

This paper takes a critical look at progress and prospects regarding the sociology of pharmaceuticals over the years. Key themes examined include: (i) medicalisation and pharmaceuticalisation; (ii) regulation; (iii) consumption and consumerism; (iv) expectations and innovation. Papers in the monograph are also introduced and discussed in relation to these themes. The paper concludes with some further comments and reflections on progress and prospects in this field, emphasising the continuing importance of sociological engagement with these personal and political issues in the 21st century.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Subjects:	R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine
Divisions:	Faculty of Social Sciences > Sociology
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Social medicine, Drugs, Consumption (economics)
Journal or Publication Title:	Sociology of Health and Illness
Publisher:	Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
ISSN:	0141-9889
Date:	28 August 2008
Volume:	Vol.30
Number:	No.6
Page Range:	pp. 813-824
Identification Number:	10.1111/j.1467-9566.2008.01123.x
Status:	Peer Reviewed
Access rights to Published version:	Restricted or Subscription Access
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URI:	http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/id/eprint/488