The Long 2020

The Long 2020 is a collection of essays that explore the global crises of 2020 from the perspective of the lived experience, its long and deep roots in various human and nonhuman pasts, and the transformation of our sense of the future. It assembles a strikingly interdisciplinary group of scholars and thinkers to address how the many crises of 2020 have unfolded, examining their origins, ongoing effects, and the relationship between home and environment, cultural, political, and social life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 07 February 2023
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press

The year 2020 was a turbulent and challenging period marked by a series of global crises that continue to impact the world today. From the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to the ongoing racial justice protests and economic uncertainties, the year was marked by unprecedented challenges and disruptions. In this collection of essays, scholars and thinkers from various disciplines explore the long-term roots and ongoing effects of these crises, examining their impact on society, culture, and the environment.

The COVID-19 pandemic, which began in early 2020, has had a profound impact on the world. The virus has infected millions of people and caused widespread death and economic devastation. The pandemic has also highlighted the vulnerability of global health systems and the importance of public health preparedness.

The racial justice protests, sparked by the killing of George Floyd in May 2020, have been a powerful expression of anger and frustration towards systemic racism and police brutality. These protests have led to significant changes in public policy and have raised awareness about the importance of racial equality and social justice.

The economic uncertainties of 2020 have also had a significant impact on people's lives. The global recession caused by the pandemic has led to job losses, business closures, and increased poverty. The crisis has also highlighted the growing inequality in the world, with many people struggling to make ends meet while others continue to reap the benefits of economic growth.

The essays in this collection explore the long-term roots of these crises, examining their historical and cultural contexts. They also examine the ongoing effects of these crises on society, culture, and the environment. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to changes in the way we work, communicate, and consume goods and services. It has also highlighted the importance of public health and the need for global cooperation in addressing health crises.

The racial justice protests have led to a renewed focus on the importance of diversity and inclusion in society. They have also raised awareness about the systemic racism that exists in many institutions and systems, such as the criminal justice system and the education system.

The economic uncertainties of 2020 have highlighted the need for economic resilience and sustainability. They have also led to a renewed interest in alternative economic systems, such as socialism and communism, that prioritize social welfare and collective ownership.

In conclusion, the year 2020 was a challenging and transformative period that has had a profound impact on the world. The crises of 2020, from the COVID-19 pandemic to the racial justice protests and economic uncertainties, have highlighted the need for global cooperation, social justice, and economic resilience. The essays in this collection offer a variety of perspectives on these crises and their long-term effects, providing a valuable contribution to our understanding of the world today.

Weight: 227g
Dimension: 216 x 140 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781517914714