Dr. Scott Stonington

Biography

Scott Stonington is an Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of Michigan, specializing in medical cultural anthropology and internal medicine. His research focuses on the intersection of globalization and biomedical ethics, particularly in the context of end-of-life decision-making in Thailand. Stonington has spent years accompanying Thai elders at their deathbeds, documenting the ethical dilemmas faced by families in the context of intensive medical care and the broader implications of high-tech medical interventions. He examines how cultural beliefs shape the experience of dying and the complex relationship between local customs and global medical practices. Stonington’s work also investigates the use of opiates for pain management, emphasizing the ethical concerns surrounding pain treatment amidst Thailand's brutal drug policies. As an Internal Medicine physician, he balances his research with clinical practice, contributing to discussions on medical knowledge and the epistemology within U.S. healthcare. In addition to his academic pursuits, Stonington is also a classical pianist and a mountain enthusiast, balancing his professional and personal life with diverse interests.

Research Interests