HIV/AIDS & gende

Abstract

This paper addresses the unfortunate fact that social theory – particularly in the humansciences – has been ominously reticent in its intellectual input on the social determinantsof HIV in South Africa. A brief overview is provided of the manifestations of HIV/AIDSas a genderised† variable. This is followed by an application to this context of the basicfeminist theories – what the lessons are that these afford us when combined with thesocietal effects of the disease. This is done within the context of South Africa (post1994) as a state with a liberal constitution. The paper points out that there are distinctlimits to how this particular ideology and its feminist variant are able provide atransformative impetus in our society. It concludes by emphasising the need for socialtheory in general and gender theory in particular to embrace ideological eclecticism inan effort to combat the hugely negative consequences of HIV/AIDS.