Although the scientific evidence does not support them, and although they perform no research and treat no patients, the AIDS denialists have become skilled at manipulating our controversy-obsessed media. Weaving misinformation with select facts and emotional, social, and political truths, they manage to publicize their speculations as “news.” What do they want? Here are a few agenda items (among many), depending on the individual dissident.
Among the scientists and professional writers, it is often the two M’s, so dangerous together: money and media exposure. For activists committed to social equity, it is the opportunity to expose a perceived evil of greed in the face of human suffering. Contrarians (college youth are conspicuous) use AIDS denialism just to be against something. Sexual radicals chafe at cautions or limitations regarding personal behaviors. Some people distrust or dislike the entire medical industry. More recently, Africans and their advocates rebel at dependence on western, i.e., white, medical expertise and resources. One personal observation as a veteran of Sixties and Seventies activism: Sometimes sheer ego gratification plays an important role. And from long involvement in HIV/AIDS: Sometimes it’s just anger and sadness needing to strike out, and the “AIDS establishment” is a handy target.
Regardless of the agenda (usually mixed), the problem is not the denialists’ ideas, per se – ideas should be explored and debated. The damage arises when their speculation leads to patients’ avoidance of medical care and to people’s blowing off safer behaviors. Both are primary goals of the AIDS denialists.
This article appears in June 9 • 2000.