The Pandemic's Shaping of American Society: Will We Ever Be the Same?
As global societies forge ahead in their post-pandemic trajectories, the question remains: Can our American society ever return to what it once was?
From H1918 to H2020
Perhaps not. The world changed irrevocably after the Spanish flu of 1918, with over 50 million deaths worldwide. Similarly, after more than 25 million infections in the U.S. alone, society will only return to its pre-pandemic state if and when an effective vaccine is distributed. If the Roaring Twenties were a reaction to the 1918 pandemic, the current reaction to the ongoing crisis signals that our society will be significantly different.
Systemic Changes and Protests
As we have seen, American society is gradually collapsing. Police brutality, increasing protests, and an economic downturn have put pressure on the very fabric of our nation. People are saying, and rightfully so, that enough is enough. The chaotic scene across the country calls for reevaluation and systemic change rather than a return to the past.
American Society Post-Trump
It is crucial to understand that the current trajectory of American society has more to do with Donald J. Trump's influence than the pandemic itself. America, comprising roughly 40 states, each with its own unique societal dynamics, is divided. Some regions may revert to their pre-Trump norms, while others will strive for a better future. The United States was already in a state of turmoil before and during the pandemic, and the question now is whether this period will mark a new era or simply a temporary blip.
Trust and the Media
The pandemic has also shattered the trust many Americans have in various institutions, including the media, the government, and even international entities. A key lesson is learning not to trust the media or the government, a lesson that was long overdue. This awakening is a significant step in ensuring that our future is more transparent and accountable.
Lessons from the 1918 Pandemic
Looking back to the 1918 pandemic, we can see a parallel where society recovered by 1920 when a government with a common-sense approach was elected. In that era, President Woodrow Wilson, a fiscal hawk, faced a government that was too stubborn to see reality. Today, we are dealing with a group that, while also stubborn, seeks self-enrichment through the chaos. Rich individuals are largely unaffected by the pandemic and are using it to drive down costs to enrich themselves further, potentially at the expense of the middle class.
The Call for Change
It is imperative that we, as a society, learn from these lessons. To heal and grow, we must not let the "citrus peel" (a term often used to describe those in power, similar to 'citrus peel' in the original text) continue to wield unchecked power. Rebuilding trust, ensuring transparency in governance, and fostering a sense of common purpose are essential steps in moving forward. The most important issue is to kick out the current leadership and start anew.
In conclusion, while the pandemic has brought significant challenges, it has also provided us with an opportunity to rebuild and remake American society for the better. We need to address systemic issues, rebuild trust, and ensure that our future is one of integrity and progress. Only then can we hope to see a society that truly reflects the values and aspirations of its people.