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I wrote about our collective underestimation of people's drive to see loved ones, the limits of lecturing, and how all I want for Christmas is a new public health strategy. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/12/tis-the-season-for-shame-and-judgment/617335/
People are lonely, scared, exhausted, grieving. Our leaders have abandoned us, so of course we're turning on each other. But shaming doesn't deter risky behavior—it just perpetuates stigma, which is counterproductive to containing the pandemic. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/12/tis-the-season-for-shame-and-judgment/617335/
Officials have blamed this surge on private social gatherings (even as they have their own!). Yes, they're risky. But here's the message: indoor dining is safe, but you're selfish and reckless if you have a holiday gathering that doesn't generate revenue. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/12/tis-the-season-for-shame-and-judgment/617335/
All those images of crowded airports—they're a gut punch. But here's where that moral outrage would be more productively directed: toward authorities who have the power to protect those most at risk and are catastrophically failing to do so. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/12/tis-the-season-for-shame-and-judgment/617335/
Officials need to be clear about the very high risks of travel and gathering this winter, but some will do it anyway. Instead of being scolded, they need practical advice on reducing risk. "Just say no" has *never* been a viable public health strategy. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/12/tis-the-season-for-shame-and-judgment/617335/
Instead of closing outdoor venues and banning all outdoor gatherings, which have been deemed inessential pleasures in a pandemic, communities should do the opposite: create spaces to gather with heat lamps, fire pits, wood. Canada’s doing it; so can we. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/12/tis-the-season-for-shame-and-judgment/617335/
It feels like only personal responsibility can save us now. But viruses are not moral agents and infection is not a personal failure. This winter, remember everyone is frayed, muster compassion whenever you can, and do your best to keep each other safe. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/12/tis-the-season-for-shame-and-judgment/617335/
