Prologue

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Chapter 1 in Nudged into Lockdown?, 2022, pp 1-23 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: In this chapter, I provide an overview of global policy responses to the Covid-19 pandemic; particularly the large-scale implementation of stringent social distancing measures popularly known as lockdowns. Why was there such universal support around the world for lockdowns given that much evidence suggests that the unidentified losses from lockdowns are larger than the potential benefits? There are and were available other intermediate steps between lockdowns and zero interventions that would have resulted in total harm minimization. Here, I set the scene for a critical re-evaluation of lockdown policies. In doing so, I introduce the concepts of trade-offs and opportunity costs. I point out that while lockdowns may have saved lives from Covid-19, they led to loss of lives (and livelihoods) elsewhere.

Keywords: Economics and Finance; Politics and Public Policy Sociology and Social Policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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