I found returning to this blog difficult for reasons that not only include adjusting to “shelter in place” realities but also because it is not easy to wrap my head around the enormity of our situation. Now that I had time to settle into the new normal (while growing my quarantine beard out), several topics rose to the surface of my thoughts that I would like to write about. Some topics revolve around authoritarianism, and others are broader and more philosophical.
Topics that fall under the larger umbrella of authoritarianism include:
- Nativism – The utility some gain in calling COVID-19 the “Chinese Virus.”
- Securitization – Labeling the pandemic a security threat and using war-time language makes it easier to clamp down on civil rights.
- Rallying to the flag effect – The increased short-run popular support for a leader during periods of crisis or war and what it may mean for the November presidential elections.
- Social Darwinism – Some are arguing that the non-productive members of society should be allowed to die (or sacrifice themselves) for the good of the economy. There is a name for that.
Other topics on my mind include:
- Hegemonic stability theory – How HST explains the lack of global coordination in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Economic Impact on Elections – What the economic downturn might mean for Trump’s re-election prospects.
- Political Polarization around COVID-19 –Partisan messaging and attitudes about the pandemic.
- Harm Theory – John Stuart Mills’ Harm Theory justifies “Shelter in Place” and other strong measures to protect the public.
- Pandemic and neoliberal globalization – How might the COVID-19 pandemic impact the neoliberal globalization project?
- Failure of Health Messaging – Beyond partisanship, why are some people not taking the pandemic seriously?
I may not get to cover all the topics in the coming weeks and months, and some may be already reported upon thoroughly enough that I will provide suggested links, rather than writing something new. Undoubtedly, the list will grow as new ideas come to me.
I hope that everyone reading this is well along with your loved ones and friends. I also hope this crisis becomes an opportunity for civic renewal as we come together (at a safe social distance) to help each other cope and ultimately rebuild.
Take care and, yes, wash your hands.
