Abstract
This thesis examines Tuberculosis as a symptom of poverty in Ecuador. A historical examination of the socio-political and economic forces that effect the state of the indigenous populations of highland Ecuador reflect the social problems that perputuate the Tuberculosis epedemic. The cycle of dependency and marginalization of the Ecuadorian Indian are perpetuated at the local, state and international level within the context of a world capitalist economy. The standard of living resulting from development initiatives defined by western economics and medicine do not address the social causes of Tuberculosis but rather deal with them as they relate to their own concerns. An ethnographic study of the Hospital Nuemologico in Cuenca, Ecuador (hereafter referred to as the LEA) reports the micro level situation of Tuberculosis prevention and treatment. This data is examined within the macro level forces effecting the phenomena. The Tuberculosis epedemic in Eucador must be addressed within the dialectic of the micro and macro level, political-economic forces effecting it within a world economic system.
Advisor
Horowitz, Sheryl
Department
Sociology and Anthropology
Recommended Citation
Whigham, Melisa J., "Tuberculosis as a Symptom of Poverty in Ecuadorian Society" (1994). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 6276.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/6276
Publication Date
1994
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 1994 Melisa J. Whigham