A consistent feature of the pandemic has been the presence of a relatively small but vocal number of conspiracy theorists who resist attempts to tackle COVID-19. Their views might seem marginal and extreme but recent research suggests that we should take them seriously. Survey data shows that belief in conspiracy theories is associated with a lack of confidence in steps aimed … [Read more...] about Covid, conspiracy theories and ‘truthpapers’
Coronavirus
Primary care needs urgent support
My 82-year-old mother called her GP surgery early one morning this week; she was told there were no appointments, and to try again the next day. This is a concerning situation. It may be the practice is short staffed with staff off sick or in isolation, or they may have vacancies they cannot fill. The situation is getting worse and I fear will continue unless we face up to … [Read more...] about Primary care needs urgent support
Dateline Covid capital of Scotland
It once perplexed me to learn that in 1918 the Spanish flu remained largely unreported. Public health officials and politicians underplayed the severity of the 1918 pandemic to preserve public order and to avoid panic. As a result there was less coverage in the press in a bid to keep morale high in the countries fighting in the First World War. It was named the Spanish flu, not … [Read more...] about Dateline Covid capital of Scotland
Scotland’s Glorious Thirty
The French talk of 'les trente glorieuses': the first three decades after the second world war (1945-75) when France experienced exceptional (Piketty) growth in output, productivity and living standards. It was a period marked by state intervention ('dirigisme'), not least in creating and extending social benefits. Echoes can be found in Germany's Wirtschaftswunder and Italy's … [Read more...] about Scotland’s Glorious Thirty
Manifestos for #Holyrood21 and the pandemic’s impact on future Scottish society
The on-going pandemic poses many vital questions in terms of how key public services and the economy need to adapt to a changed world. Scotland has the opportunity of comparing varying political party approaches to such essential reforms at the May 6 Scottish Parliament elections. The election date is less than nine weeks away, with manifestos due before that. However, so far … [Read more...] about Manifestos for #Holyrood21 and the pandemic’s impact on future Scottish society