"American Nations" and Fatal Injuries: Exploring the Influence of Cultural Institutions, as Defined by Colin Woodwards, “American Nations”, on Occupational Fatalities
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. Douglas Myers (Mentor), Boise State University
Abstract
Modern epidemiology plays a crucial role in understanding and controlling the occurrence of diseases. Despite significant advancements in technology and scientific knowledge, there are challenges that continue to hinder its effectiveness as the comprehensive science of public health. For decades some epidemiologists have called for the expansion of epidemiology to include the study of broad societal factors that shape health patterns in addition to individual-level risk factors for disease (Wing 1991, McMichael 1999, Rose 2001). Even contemporary social epidemiology, which acknowledges forces affecting health beyond individual level factors, often neglects the role of macro institutional factors. A more comprehensive approach adds to the social epidemiologic perspective and recognizes broader influences on health in addition to the properties of social variables. It acknowledges that interactions among institutions such as political institutions, religious institutions, and cultural institutions can shape societal contexts that impact epidemiological outcomes. This study is an exploration of the role that culture plays in shaping the pattern of a health outcome. We propose that cultural nations, defined by Colin Woodward's "American Nations", shape policy decisions impacting safety practices. We hypothesize that regions with cultural values emphasizing individualism and limited government intervention will have higher rates of occupational fatalities.
"American Nations" and Fatal Injuries: Exploring the Influence of Cultural Institutions, as Defined by Colin Woodwards, “American Nations”, on Occupational Fatalities
Modern epidemiology plays a crucial role in understanding and controlling the occurrence of diseases. Despite significant advancements in technology and scientific knowledge, there are challenges that continue to hinder its effectiveness as the comprehensive science of public health. For decades some epidemiologists have called for the expansion of epidemiology to include the study of broad societal factors that shape health patterns in addition to individual-level risk factors for disease (Wing 1991, McMichael 1999, Rose 2001). Even contemporary social epidemiology, which acknowledges forces affecting health beyond individual level factors, often neglects the role of macro institutional factors. A more comprehensive approach adds to the social epidemiologic perspective and recognizes broader influences on health in addition to the properties of social variables. It acknowledges that interactions among institutions such as political institutions, religious institutions, and cultural institutions can shape societal contexts that impact epidemiological outcomes. This study is an exploration of the role that culture plays in shaping the pattern of a health outcome. We propose that cultural nations, defined by Colin Woodward's "American Nations", shape policy decisions impacting safety practices. We hypothesize that regions with cultural values emphasizing individualism and limited government intervention will have higher rates of occupational fatalities.