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M94A2034.TXT
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1994-10-24
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Document 2034
DOCN M94A2034
TI Holism: the other voice of AIDS activism.
DT 9412
AU Elbaz G; MHRA, NDRI, CUNY, NYC 10013.
SO Int Conf AIDS. 1994 Aug 7-12;10(1):396 (abstract no. PD0193). Unique
Identifier : AIDSLINE ICA10/94370541
AB OBJECTIVE: The present research describes the ideology and strategy of
holistic AIDS activists. METHODS: The research was conducted on the
Alternative and Holistic Treatment Committee members of the New York
City-based activist group AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power or ACT UP. A
survey was conducted on a non-probability sample to delineate the
socioeconomic profile of the members. Semi-structured interviews spell
out the activists' ideology. Finally, a three-year ethnographic study
reveals their tactics and strategies. RESULTS: Holistic activists are
middle class with a high level of education. They argue that only a
holistic approach, which takes into account psychological, sociological
and cultural factors, can comprehend and resolve the complexities of a
condition such as AIDS. They construe AIDS as a disease of the immune
system which must be healed by using natural substances such as herbs,
immune-enhancing diets, as well as by reconstructing an environment free
of stress. Methodological differences exist amongst holistic activists.
Some argue that the scientific methodology essentially defeats the
purpose of the holistic approach by breaking down realities into
separate variables. Others argue that alternative treatments can validly
be tested scientifically. Lack of research funds, argue the activists,
prevent the testing of those treatments. Both groups, however, perceive
high-powered scientists as a political impediment to their approach.
Just as in a political conflict, they use the political process and
civil disobedience to promote their holistic paradigm. DISCUSSION AND
CONCLUSIONS: Holistic activists have contributed to the shift of
research focus from a strictly virological paradigm to a broader
perspective that takes into account cofactors and focuses on
strengthening the immune system. They have also been partially credited
for the creation of the Office of Alternative Medicine at the National
Institutes of Health. More research efforts are needed to recognize the
potential benefits of a holistic approach.
DE Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/PREVENTION & CONTROL/
*REHABILITATION Alternative Medicine Comprehensive Health Care
*Holistic Health Human New York City Politics Power (Psychology)
Research *Self-Help Groups *Urban Population MEETING ABSTRACT
SOURCE: National Library of Medicine. NOTICE: This material may be
protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).