STIGMATIZATION, SCAPEGOATING AND DISCRIMINATION IN SEXUALLY-TRANSMITTED DISEASES - OVERCOMING THEM AND US

It is recognized that AIDS involves multiple epidemics. As well as an epidemic of HIV, we are experiencing epidemics of fear and of stimatiz ation, scapegoating and discrimination associated with AIDS. In this p aper, we investigate the nature of these reactions and the links betwe en them. In doing so, we identify some of their causes. We likewise in vestigate counter-reactions, pre-eminent among which is the promotion of concepts of respect for persons and for human rights. We also exami ne the 'tools' used to elicit and manifest both these reactions and co unter-reactions. In all cases, these 'tools' include choice of languag e-especially in the form of metaphor and rhetoric-and the use of symbo lism. We conclude that in order to deal humanely and compassionately w ith AIDS and persons with AIDS, and, ultimately, to protect society (i ncluding, the fundamental principles and rules on which it is based), a primary requirement is to recognize that we are all living with AIDS , whether infected or affected by it; that is, in the context of AIDS, it is imperative that we overcome any divisions into 'them' and 'us'.