ABSTRACT
With "Coping with Stigma" (chapter 21 of this volume), we are beginning to address the normative dimension of our subject. We are discussing what we ought to do about stigma. This normative focus is somewhat different than the one we have had until now. The focus before this point has been on the normal scientific problems of predicting and explaining stigma-related phenomena: that is, on the problems associated with developing models for the dynamic processes surrounding stigma, with identifying causal factors that increase or decrease stigma formation, and with devising effective methods for modifying stigma phenomena. We have been discussing, for example, different metrics for measuring negative affective response, such as a decreased willingness-topay. These are inquiries in which scientists routinely engage.
