Modernity and the Pandemic: Decivilization, Imperialism, and COVID-19

Modernity and the Pandemic explores the COVID-19 crisis through the lens of critical social theory, highlighting the impact of individualism, consumerism, and social inequalities on public health and the challenges posed by interstate competition and imperial politics in responding to the pandemic.

Format: Hardback
Length: 332 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The book "Modernity and the Pandemic: Decivilization, Imperialism, and COVID-19" delves into the intricate relationship between modernity, the COVID-19 crisis, and its societal repercussions. Applying the critical lenses of social theory, the author aims to unravel the complexities of the pandemic and provide a comprehensive sociological analysis of the political and community responses.

At the heart of the book lies a profound exploration of the underlying factors contributing to the vulnerability of societies to pandemics. The author argues that cultures of individualism and consumerism, coupled with pervasive and deeply entrenched social inequalities, serve as significant impediments to public health. These cultures undermine the compliance of individuals with state-mandated non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as physical distancing rules, and contribute to vaccine hesitancy. By weakening the collective will and social bonds, they create a fertile ground for the spread of infectious diseases.

Furthermore, the book sheds light on how interstate competition and imperial politics have hindered the development of an effective global policy response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Policy failures, attributed to the dominance of neoliberal ideology and governance in international relations, are seen as rooted in the prioritization of corporate interests over public health. The competitive dynamics of multinational capitalism further constrain state actors, limiting their ability to implement comprehensive and equitable measures.

"Modernity and the Pandemic" appeals to scholars in the humanities and social sciences with a keen interest in neoliberalism and its far-reaching social, cultural, and epidemiological impacts. The book offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between modernity, globalization, and public health, challenging readers to reevaluate the societal structures and ideologies that have contributed to this global crisis. By examining the historical roots of inequality, consumerism, and neoliberal ideology, the author provides a framework for understanding the ongoing challenges and opportunities facing societies in the aftermath of the pandemic.

In conclusion, "Modernity and the Pandemic: Decivilization, Imperialism, and COVID-19" is a thought-provoking and indispensable contribution to the study of contemporary society. Through its critical sociological analysis, the book sheds light on the underlying factors that have contributed to the pandemic and offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing societies in the post-pandemic era. It serves as a call to action for policymakers, activists, and individuals to address the systemic inequalities and promote a more equitable and sustainable future.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032567969