Turning the World Upside Down Again: Global health in a time of pandemics, climate change and political turmoil

Nigel Crisp argued that the most affluent and powerful countries can learn a lot about health from lower-income countries, and that they need to listen to and learn from disempowered communities in their own countries to create a new ecologically based vision for health. This second edition is extensively re-written and updated, drawing on examples from around the world and reflecting on what has been learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 266 pages
Publication date: 08 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Nigel Crisp, in his book "Turning the World Upside Down," makes a compelling argument that the wealthiest and most powerful nations can gain valuable insights into health by examining lower-income countries, with their unique perspectives and experiences. He further suggests that these countries should embrace the opportunity to learn from and engage with disempowered communities within their own borders. By combining knowledge from diverse sources, including countries and communities, Crisp proposes a new ecological vision for health and presents practical approaches to enhance health for individuals, communities, and the planet.

This second edition, published 12 years after the first, has undergone extensive rewriting and updating, incorporating examples from around the world and considering the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and the onset of climate change. The book continues the exploration of understanding initiated in the first edition, emphasizing the need for Western scientific medicine to adapt and evolve rapidly to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

In Chapter 1, Crisp explores the historical roots of the current health crisis, highlighting the disparities between rich and poor countries and the impact of colonialism, globalization, and neoliberal policies on health outcomes. He argues that the dominant Western medical model, which has been successful in the 20th century, needs to be reevaluated and transformed to address the complex health challenges of the 21st century.

Chapter 2 delves into the concept of "global health justice," which emphasizes the need to address health inequalities and promote equity. Crisp argues that the current global health system is flawed and hierarchical, with powerful nations and corporations controlling resources and policies, while marginalized communities face systemic barriers to accessing healthcare. He proposes a more decentralized and community-based approach to health care that empowers individuals and promotes social and economic justice.

Chapter 3 explores the role of innovation in driving health progress. Crisp argues that the most significant innovations in health have come from lower-income countries, where researchers and practitioners have been able to develop innovative solutions to address local health challenges without the constraints of vested interests and received wisdom. He highlights the importance of open collaboration and sharing knowledge across borders to accelerate health progress.

Chapter 4 examines the impact of climate change on health and the need for a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to health care. Crisp argues that climate change is a global health emergency that requires urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate its effects. He proposes a holistic approach to health that includes addressing climate change as a public health issue and promoting sustainable practices in all aspects of life.

Chapter 5 discusses the role of community engagement and participation in health care. Crisp argues that disempowered health is a complex and multi-faceted issue that requires the involvement of communities and their perspectives. He proposes a participatory approach to health care that involves community members in decision-making processes, resource allocation, and health promotion activities.

Chapter 6 explores the challenges and opportunities of combining the learning from different countries and communities. Crisp argues that the world is facing unprecedented health challenges, and the only way to address them is by learning from and collaborating with diverse sources of knowledge. He highlights the importance of cultural humility, respect, and understanding in cross-cultural collaborations and proposes strategies for building partnerships and networks that promote health equity and sustainability.

Chapter 7 examines the role of Western scientific medicine in the 21st century. Crisp argues that Western scientific medicine has played a significant role in improving health outcomes and saving lives, but it must adapt and evolve further to meet the demands of the 21st century. He highlights the need for a more holistic and integrated approach to health care that incorporates traditional medicine, complementary and alternative therapies, and social and environmental factors.

Chapter 8 discusses the implications of the book for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and individuals. Crisp argues that the insights and recommendations presented in the book can help policymakers develop more effective and equitable health policies and practices. He emphasizes the importance of investing in health research, education, and infrastructure in developing countries and promoting global health cooperation and collaboration.

In conclusion, "Turning the World Upside Down" offers a compelling and thought-provoking perspective on health and the role of different countries and communities in addressing health challenges. Nigel Crisp's book challenges the dominant Western medical model and promotes a more holistic and equitable approach to health care. By combining knowledge from diverse sources and engaging with disempowered communities, we can develop a new ecological vision for health and create practical ways to improve health for ourselves, our communities, and our planet. The book's insights and recommendations are relevant to policymakers, healthcare professionals, and individuals alike, and it serves as a call to action for a more sustainable and just global health system.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 157 x 234 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032212951
Edition number: 2 ed