The Social Context of AIDS: Sociological Contributions to Research and Policy

Summary: Social research and analysis can add considerably to our understanding of the social context of AIDS. Sociologists have been fairly slow to address questions of research and policy concerning the AIDS crisis but recent work has added immeasurably to our knowledge of this disease, its epidemic and the social context in which they occur. In this volume nine articles address various aspects of the social context of AIDS.... Versions of these articles were originally delivered as papers in thematic sessions of the 1989 American Sociological Association annual meeting. Collectively, they represent the cutting edge of sociological work on the AIDS crisis. Two pieces develop theoretical models for understanding AIDS in relation to society. Others address the general question of high risk sexual practice, often the means of transmission of the virus. Finally a number of articles address the social context of policy and programme development in fighting AIDS - organizing drug users, forced blood-testing and family support groups, among others. Thus both researchers, policy analysts and programme directors will find this volume useful in understanding the broader context of this deadly epidemic. [read more]