HST310 Drugs and Alcohol: Historical Perspectives (8)

Drugs and alcohol have been looked upon in vastly different ways over time, and according to the cultural context in which they are being considered. Even the term 'illicit drugs' is a relatively modern one. Yet, current debates are most often ahistorical- they proceed from the assumption that drug and alcohol use, public policy and law do not have a past. This subject explores how drugs and alcohol have been considered at key moments in history.

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2021.

Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Humanities and Social Sciences

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • Understand key moments in this history and appreciate their significance
  • Be able to analyse the cultural and social meanings attached to drugs and alcohol over time
  • Have developed a knowledge of, and ability to critique theoretical frameworks utilised to facilitate this analysis
  • Have gained a deeper understanding of contemporary debates in the area by having an historical perspective on drugs and alcohol.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Prohibition in 1920s America
  • the 'sly-grog' era in Australia, clubs and sly grog joints
  • analysis of the social, cultural and political effects of both prohibition and regulation
  • drug and 'pub' subcultures throughout history
  • media representations of drugs and alcohol in the 20th century
  • the history of heroin in South East Asia and the West.
  • the origins of the 'war on drugs'

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of HST310 in Session 2 2020. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Weekly 'discussion board' participation
50
2
Major essay
50

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: February 2021. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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