AIDS
Introduction
AIDS by Theodoulou (1996) i
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AIDS by Theodoulou (1996) is a book about the politics and policy of the disease. The author is a teacher at California State University, Northridge. He states that his purpose in writing the book was to offer "key contemporary research on the epidemic from a broad variety of policy and political perspectives" and "share a common understanding of AIDS as a fundamentally challenging issue that calls for a highly political response" (p. vii). Political dimensions covered included ethical considerations, constitutional issues, bureaucracy, and services within a capitalist economy. Policy dimensions dealt with governmental responses. Comparisons were made between the United States and other nations regarding the handling of AIDS. AIDS is stated to be a disease that takes place regardless of politics, social status, or sexual preference and yet the handling of this disease reflects discriminatory practices in the health care system. This is reported to be a disease that is not only a health care issue, but an issue of sexual preference, classism, sexism, and racism. As an indication of evidence regarding AIDS prejudice, the author points out that as of 1994, 22.2 million people around the world had HIV, and it is estimated that by the year 2000, a minimum of 38 million adults will become HIV-positive. The federal government has finally recognized AIDS as an epidemic, however, no overall national governmental strategy has been d
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ons. This book is worth reading and should be recommended, since it provides insight into aspects of AIDS that one would like to overlook.
A weakness of the book includes a slight tendency toward bias which was reflected in the use of descriptive words such as "disgusting," "outlandish," "hardly surprising," and "lurid," while referencing sexual or racist tendencies; these words in fact imply a prejudice against sexual or racial preference. The author also tends to paint a fairly negative portrayal regarding AIDS and the political arena, which may be considered an additional weakness of the book. Problems are presented and given more precedence than positive solutions. This focus is one-sided, may reflect additional bias, and can result in feelings of overwhelm rather than inspiration.
Points of Learning
Three points of learning gleaned from the reading of this book include the following: that the disease had reached epidemic proportions; that monkeys did not pass the virus to people; and that other countries such as Cuba may have something to offer the American health care system.
Working with AIDS patients has always included the necessity for being aware of current research findings, however, a new awareness of t
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Approximate Word count = 1513
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page)
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