Folk, alternative and complementary health care practices in contemporary Western society are currently experiencing a renaissance, albeit with features that are unique to this historical moment. At the same time biomedicine is under scrutiny, experiencing a number of distinct and multifaceted crises. In this volume the authors draw together cutting edge cross-cultural, interdisciplinary research in Britain and Ireland, focusing on exploring the role and significance of healing practices in diverse local contexts, such as the use of crystals, herbs, cures and charms, potions and lotions.

Ronnie Moore currently Lectures in Medical Anthropology and Sociology in the Departments of Sociology and Public Health Medicine and Epidemiology at University College Dublin. Ronnie's research interests include health disparities; health, conflict and ethnic identity; and conflict theory.

Stuart McClean is a Senior Lecturer at the University of the West of England, Bristol. Stuart's research interests include the resurgence of alternative medicine and healing practices in Western societies, the role of creative arts in health, and the global dimensions surrounding health.

Research Methods for Public Health offers an in-depth introduction to the theories, concepts, approaches and practices, relevant to research methods in a public health setting. Informed by a socio-ecological model of public health, the book uses real world research examples and contemporary social, political and environmental themes of public health that reflect UK and international contexts. The book provides a straightforward approach to developing a research project and applying methods in practical and realistic ways, using an innovative, integrative approach that combines methodologies. The authors have moved away from traditional approaches to research methods, and include chapters on primary quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research, evidence synthesis approaches, critical appraisal, research governance and ethics, and dissemination. Essential reading for postgraduate students, researchers and public health practitioners, or individuals preparing for the UK Faculty of Public Health Part A examination.

Research Methods for Public Health offers an in-depth introduction to the theories, concepts, approaches and practices, relevant to research methods in a public health setting. Informed by a socio-ecological model of public health, the book uses real world research examples and contemporary social, political and environmental themes of public health that reflect UK and international contexts. The book provides a straightforward approach to developing a research project and applying methods in practical and realistic ways, using an innovative, integrative approach that combines methodologies. The authors have moved away from traditional approaches to research methods, and include chapters on primary quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research, evidence synthesis approaches, critical appraisal, research governance and ethics, and dissemination. Essential reading for postgraduate students, researchers and public health practitioners, or individuals preparing for the UK Faculty of Public Health Part A examination.