AIDS intervention programmes have often been characterised by an obsession with the theory, rather than the practical outworking of that theory.
Thus the two extremes in approach of activists wanting to change sexual behaviour are described as the 'moralisers' and the 'public health fundamentalists'. These are said to be mutually incompatible with a strong polarisation of their approaches and their messages.
The 'public health fundamentalists' want to give only a positive message without using any fear. Their message can be summed up as: 'Enjoy life, live as you want, have sex whenever you feel like it, you don't need to think about the consequences provided you use a condom.'
