Daily: MASKS under the scientific spotlight

If there’s one symbol of the COVID fight it’s the face mask – but do we understand the consequences of a masked society? Professor Graham Martin, Director of Research at the Healthcare Improvement Studies Institute, tells Ros Taylor why the issue of masks isn’t as clear-cut as we think, why the social dynamic of masks is so important, and how we can improve the quality of debate surrounding COVID-19.

• “Science is about debate – it’s about disagreement.”
• “What we’re seeing now is science under the spotlight”
• “It’s not so much scientific debate that breeds conspiracy theories, but any effort to suppress debate”
• “If you see anyone who isn’t wearing a mask, don’t assume they’re doing it out of bloody-mindedness”
• “I would say to anyone, if you can wear a mask, do so”

Presented by Ros Taylor. Produced by Andrew Harrison. Assistant producer Jacob Archbold. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Alex Rees. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production.

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