CO-SPONSORSHIP: Bioethics and Religion Unit and Religions, Medicines, and Healing Unit

Public Policy, Religion, and Healing:

This panel will examine the dynamic relationships between individual freedom and collective responsibility in the context of public health and health policy. We invite paper proposals that explore the intersections of religion, healing, and public policy, with a particular focus on the tensions between government interventions and individual autonomy. In the wake of the Dobbs decision, we particularly welcome papers that examine the complex dynamics between individual reproductive justice and government interventions, exploring the broader implications for autonomy and public policy. We also invite contributions that investigate how religious beliefs and practices shape sexual and reproductive health policies, including their impacts on intimate partner violence and harm. We are especially interested in work that explores collective efforts to advocate for freedom in the face of structural barriers. Additionally, this panel seeks papers that critically analyze theories of health promotion and autonomy within public health initiatives, as well as religious exemptions to public health mandates (e.g. religious vaccine exemptions). We encourage submissions from diverse methodological approaches, including public health, theology, religious studies, sociology, political science, and bioethics.