There is now a vast literature on HIV and AIDS but much of it is based on traditional biomedical or epidemiological approaches. Hence it tells us very little about the experiences of the millions of people whose living and dying constitute the reality of this devastating pandemic. Doyal brings together findings from a wide range of empirical studies spanning the social sciences to explore experiences of HIV positive people across the world. This will illustrate how the disease is physically manifested and psychologically internalised by individuals in diverse ways depending on the biological, social, cultural and economic circumstances in which they find themselves. A proper understanding of these commonalities and differences will be essential if future strategies are to be effective in mitigating the effects of HIV and AIDS. Doyal shows that such initiatives will also require a better appreciation of the needs and rights of those affected within the wider context of global inequalities and injustices. Finally, she outlines approaches to address these challenges. This book will appeal to everyone involved in struggles to improve the well-being of those with HIV and AIDS. While academically rigorous, it is written in an accessible manner that transcends specific disciplines and, through its extensive bibliography, provides diverse source material for future teaching, learning and research.

Product Description: This is a comprehensive discussion of the ethical issues involved in informing patients on their rights and participation in medical research and treatment. With 30 chapters contributed by internationally recognised medical ethicists, Informed Consent provides an authoritative reference on a subject of major importance in medical ethic...read more (view table of contents, read Amazon.com's description)

Rejecting relativist approaches, this book argues that physical health and individual autonomy are the necessary preconditions for participation in any society. The authors not only argue that optimal satisfaction of these basic human needs is a fundamental right of all our planet's citizens, but also that not meeting these needs can, and will, lead to moral and political disablement.Integrating theory and practice, the book presents a system for cross-cultural needs measurement, as well as a set of requirements for ameliorating human impoverishment. It then describes an innovative 'dual strategy' which recognizes the economic importance of both market forces and central planning, and the political importance of both state intervention and a flourishing democracy.

Product Description: Originally published in 1986. All students of social science must confront a number of important philosophical issues. This introduction to the philosophy of the social sciences provides coherent answers to questions about empiricism, explanation and rationality...read more