Richard Meisler

Dr. Richard Meisler was a Lecturer in the Department of American Culture at the University of Michigan, where he dedicated his career to exploring contemporary social issues, particularly the HIV/AIDS pandemic. He earned a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Columbia University, specializing in the philosophy of science. Dr. Meisler passed away in 2017 due to complications from pancreatic cancer surgery, but his legacy continues through the courses he developed.One of his most significant contributions is the course "AIDS: Fear and Hope," which emphasizes the extensive impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The course covers not only the biological and medical aspects of HIV and AIDS but also delves into the economic, political, cultural, and social factors that shape the understanding and management of the disease. It highlights personal narratives from those affected by HIV/AIDS, providing a multidisciplinary perspective on this public health crisis.The course remains available on Coursera, allowing learners to engage with Dr. Meisler's insights and research on this critical issue. His work has had a lasting influence on education surrounding HIV/AIDS, fostering awareness and understanding of its complexities in society.