The Way We Are

Human Wisdom*

When you are trying to digest all the Covid-19 "information" around, what do you believe and who do you trust? 

Here is a bit of guidance from two Scottish scientists** on avoiding
 really destructive communication


Fear or Hope?

The temptation to draw overly simple and sensational conclusions is understandable, because it captures the attention of the public and can potentially catalyze much needed action in policy development and research arenas. However, fear-based messages often backfire. This strategy has the grave risk of undermining trust in science and can lead to denialism, fatigue, and apathy. 

Embracing nuance allows us to balance accurate reporting of worrying losses with hopeful examples of wins. Hope is a more powerful engine of change than fear.

AMEN! Maria and Gergana!!


*There are many other wisdoms. The wisdom of the flea, ...of the Remora, ...of the dandelion
**

  • Maria Dornelas1, 
  • Gergana N. Daskalova2

    1. 1Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9TH, Scotland, UK.
    2. 2School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, West Mains Road, Edinburgh 
    [Their article is on the "Insect Apocalypse" in Science Magazine ]

    A BIRD'S EYE VIEW OF THE INSECT APOCALYPSE

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