Suchergebnisse

This work investigates the relationships among Psychology, defined as an institution of knowledge & practices, Politics, conceived as the arena where symbolic & realistic fights occur in order to achieve power & knowledge, & Human Rights, delimited as the socially formed understanding about "human nature." A set of results from several studies carried out by our research group is analyzed. Specifically discussed are the relationships between psychology lecturers' theories & practices concerning homosexuality & discrimination against it. The results show the existence of a social norm that predisposes psychology lecturers against explicit prejudicial attitudes, but that psychological theory & practice reinforce discriminatory situations. Tables, References. Adapted from the source document.

Explores Anthony Giddens's views on sexuality, based on an analysis of "The Transformation of Intimacy" (in Sexuality, Love and Eroticism in Modern Societies [1992]). According to Giddens, sexuality has become "plastic," disconnected from the reproduction of the species. It has moved into the private realm because it is used for sexual pleasure, as in homosexuality. Sexuality can be used for other ends also, like pornography & sexual abuse. Giddens cites empirical data on homosexuality to prove his thesis. Plastic sexuality can also lead to compulsive sexuality, as distingushed from an intimate relationship that also includes love. Plastic sexuality raises important issues in society about equality between the sexes, the redefinition of masculinity, basic confidence in overcoming dependency, & matrimonial models. M. Pflum

Examines how organized group protests & boycotts influenced scientific practice in the research of an experimental drug (AZT) for the treatment of acquired immune deficiency syndrome in San Francisco, CA, & Miami, FL, in the late 1980s & 1990s. Leading gay rights movements in the US protested against pharmaceutical research that administered placebos to patients for the sake of control groups. The clinic boycotts & public attention forced researchers & pharmaceutical sponsors to engage more with society in general & to redesign their research procedures. Increased communication between the activists & researchers created a more tranquil & productive setting for the scientists & prompted a valuable exchange between researchers & patients. Activists in turn learned more about the scientific process involved in drug research & treatment. 19 References. Adapted from the source document.