Science and Politics of Covid-19: How Scientists Should Tackle Global Crises

This book provides an insiders view on the Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting the failure of science to have a decisive influence on decision-makers and the development of "science politics" at an unprecedented rate. It also highlights the weakness of democratic regimes and the power of technocapitalism. The author proposes an international framework on health risk to co-construct decision-making and advocates political distancing to put the basics first: develop science and fight ignorance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book offers a captivating and informative account of the COVID-19 pandemic, shedding light on the efforts of scientists and medical professionals to assist governments in managing this global crisis. Through extensive interviews and engaging exchanges with a diverse range of experts, government representatives, journalists, and scientists, the book provides a comprehensive exploration of the pandemic's origins, trajectory, and the challenges faced by various countries in their response.

One of the central questions addressed in the book is why some of the most scientifically advanced countries have experienced the highest COVID-19 mortality rates. The author delves into the research community's role during the pandemic, highlighting both its contributions and the controversies that have emerged. The book sheds light on the complexities and challenges of scientific research, emphasizing the need for transparency, collaboration, and rigorous peer review.

The book also provides an insiders' perspective on the major crisis, offering insights from China, France, the UK, and the USA, in particular. Through these testimonies, the author highlights the varying approaches taken by different countries and the challenges they faced in their response. The book raises important questions about the role of science in decision-making and the influence of scientific experts on policymakers.

While the governments of these countries initially based their COVID-19 strategies on scientific evidence, the book argues that scientists failed to have a decisive influence on decision-makers, except in China. This lack of scientific influence led to the creation of "time bombs," as the accelerated development of vaccines did not erase the errors and mistakes made in the past months. The crisis has accelerated the development of "science politics," highlighting the need for greater collaboration and coordination between countries in responding to health crises.

However, the book also acknowledges that experts themselves did not rise to the challenge posed by the pandemic. The author highlights the need for greater accountability and responsibility among scientists and the scientific community. The book proposes the establishment of an international framework on health risk to facilitate decision-making and promote international cooperation.

Furthermore, the book advocates for political distancing, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the development of science and fighting ignorance. The author argues that the pandemic has exposed the weaknesses of democratic regimes and the power of technocapitalism, leading to countries prioritizing national approaches over international cooperation. The book calls for a shift towards a more inclusive and equitable global governance system that recognizes the interconnectedness of human and environmental health.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable and thought-provoking exploration of the COVID-19 pandemic, shedding light on the efforts of scientists and medical professionals to manage this global crisis. Through extensive interviews and engaging exchanges, the author provides a comprehensive account of the pandemic's origins, trajectory, and the challenges faced by various countries. The book raises important questions about the role of science in decision-making, the influence of scientific experts on policymakers, and the need for greater collaboration and coordination in responding to health crises. The book's insights and recommendations will be of interest to policymakers, scientists, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges facing our world in the years to come.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 155 x 233 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030778637
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021