Summary
Contents
Subject index
The Case for Democracy explores the psychological biases; distorted risk perceptions; frenetic journalism; the impotence of science; the narrow focus of 'experts'; value judgements dressed up as truths; propaganda; the invisibility of ethics; and the alarming irrelevance of inclusive democracy that have been features of the human reaction to the covid-19 pandemic. David Seedhouse argues that the chaotic human response to the virus, with no attempt to include the public, is the perfect argument for an extensive, participatory democracy. It is time for us to solve our problems together. David Seedhouse is Professor of Deliberative Practice at Aston University.
The Psychology
The Psychology
- Psychological bias (A) and Self-awareness (B)
- Risk perceptions (A) and Accurate comparisons (B)
- Scientific directives (A) and Community values (B)
There are many specific psychological effects of the restrictions. Most but not all of them negative. For example:
In lockdown, unmet self-protection needs become ‘normal’ and individuals experience systematic frustration of a deep-seated need to ensure protection of self and their family. This high level of frustration causes fear, anxiety and distress as individuals feel incompetent to guarantee the safety and protection of loved ones, family and self. Fear, anxiety and distress are also associated with insomnia, irritability and aggression. Especially if an individual uses alcohol or drugs to assuage their fears, aggression may turn into physical violence to family members, women, children and pets. ...
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