Mathew Savelli

Mathew Savelli is an Associate Professor in the Health, Aging & Society department at McMaster University, with a cross-appointment to the Arts & Science program. His academic focus lies at the intersection of historical studies and health sciences, examining how medical knowledge and practices have evolved over time, particularly in Eastern European contexts.

Dr. Savelli completed his academic training with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History from McMaster University, followed by an MSc in Russian and East European Studies and a DPhil in Modern History (specializing in History of Medicine) from the University of Oxford. He furthered his scholarly development with a postdoctoral fellowship at the Chemical Heritage Foundation.

• History of mental health and psychiatry, with special focus on Eastern Europe
• History of drugs, including both legal and illegal psychoactive substances
• History and philosophy of medicine
• History of medicine and health care systems
• Psychoactive substances in historical context

His scholarly output demonstrates consistent engagement with the historical development of mental health practices, particularly examining socialist Yugoslavia's approach to psychiatry and mental health. His work bridges medical history with cultural studies, analyzing how societal values shape medical understanding and treatment approaches. Recent publications continue to explore the intersection of political systems and mental health care, with particular attention to advertising, cultural representations, and policy development.

Dr. Savelli teaches a range of courses including Drugs, Sex and Alcohol: Society and its Addictions (HLTHAGE 2L03), Introduction to Mental Health and Illness (HLTHAGE 1CC3), Representations of Mental Illness (HLTHAGE 4Q03), and various Global Challenges Inquiry courses. His teaching spans from foundational courses for first-year students to specialized upper-level courses, reflecting his commitment to engaging students at all levels with critical perspectives on health and society.

Based in Kenneth Taylor Hall, Room 230 at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Dr. Savelli maintains an active scholarly profile with publications spanning books, book chapters, and numerous peer-reviewed journal articles that contribute significantly to the historical understanding of mental health systems and drug cultures.