Back to Search Start Over

AIDS and apocalypticism: interpretations of the epidemic from Papua New Guinea.

Authors :
Eves, Richard
Source :
Culture, Health & Sexuality; May/Jun2003, Vol. 5 Issue 3, p249, 16p
Publication Year :
2003

Abstract

There has been little research into how the diverse cultures within Papua New Guinea interpret, represent and understand the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Using qualitative ethnographic research, this study examines how incoming ideas about AIDS relate to the existing cultural frameworks of a rural Christian community. Although L, elet respondents in New Ireland have recourse to indigenous conceptions, apocalyptic Christianity is the most influential framework in their understanding of AIDS. Two interconnected issues are examined: how the epidemic is understood in apocalyptic terms, and how this affects practical approach to the disease. The paper indicates a need for more research into the stances taken by different Christian groups towards HIV/AIDS. This is especially important in the Pacific, where Christianity is the dominant worldview and where there has been a rapid spread of apocalyptic forms of Christianity, which may have particularly significant consequences for the epidemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subjects

Subjects :
AIDS
CHRISTIANITY

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
13691058
Volume :
5
Issue :
3
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Culture, Health & Sexuality
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
9895176
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/136910501171706