Health in a Post-COVID World: Lessons from the Crisis of Western Liberalism

The values of growth and prosperity, freedom and justice, security and democracy play a significant role in social policy and human welfare. Sebastian Taylor assesses their impact on our welfare, development, and environmental survival using health as an objective metric.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 372 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

In the realm of social policy and human welfare, the values of growth and prosperity, freedom and justice, security and democracy hold immense significance. These founding principles of Western liberalism have shaped the trajectory of societies for centuries, aiming to promote progress, well-being, and social justice. However, the question arises as to how we can judge the validity of these principles and the policies they engender, considering that they are often touted as the recipe for progress.

Amidst a global "permacrisis," Sebastian Taylor, with his extensive frontline experience working with health systems and healthcare in the Global North and South, delves into the profound impact of contemporary liberal values on our welfare, development, and environmental survival. Drawing on a wealth of research from across the globe, Taylor employs health as an objective metric to assess the effectiveness of these policies for individuals and society as a whole.

Growth and prosperity are fundamental values that drive economic development and improve the standard of living for individuals. They are often seen as the key to unlocking opportunities and reducing poverty. However, Taylor questions the narrow focus on economic growth at the expense of environmental sustainability. He argues that unchecked economic expansion can lead to resource depletion, pollution, and climate change, which have far-reaching consequences for human welfare and the planet's health.

Freedom and justice are essential components of a democratic society, guaranteeing individual rights and freedoms. They encompass the principles of equality, fairness, and the protection of human rights. Taylor emphasizes the importance of upholding these values in social policy to ensure that all individuals have access to basic needs, such as healthcare, education, and social safety nets. He also highlights the need to address systemic inequalities and promote social mobility to create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Security and democracy are closely interconnected, as they provide the foundation for peace, stability, and the rule of law. They ensure that individuals can live in safety and with respect for their rights without fear of oppression or authoritarianism. Taylor argues that social policy should prioritize the promotion of security and democracy by investing in education, infrastructure, and social services to reduce poverty, inequality, and social exclusion.

However, judging the validity of these values and the policies they shape is not an easy task. The outcomes of these policies can vary widely depending on the context, cultural norms, and political systems in different countries. Taylor acknowledges the complexities and challenges involved in assessing the impact of contemporary liberal values on human welfare. He emphasizes the need for a nuanced and multi-dimensional approach that considers the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of policy interventions.

Furthermore, Taylor suggests that we should engage in a critical dialogue and engage in a critical dialogue to assess the effectiveness of these policies. This involves questioning the assumptions underlying these policies, examining their unintended consequences, and exploring alternative approaches that prioritize human well-being and environmental sustainability. By engaging in this dialogue, we can develop a more informed and nuanced understanding of the role of liberal values in social policy and human welfare.

In conclusion, the values of growth and prosperity, freedom and justice, security and democracy play a crucial role in social policy and human welfare. While they are often seen as the recipe for progress, it is essential to judge their validity and the policies they shape through a critical and nuanced lens. By engaging in a critical dialogue and considering the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of policy interventions, we can strive for a more just, sustainable, and prosperous world.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781447368373