Simon Schama on Pandemics and the Health of Nations, Part Two
Oct 22, 2023
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Simon Schama, bestselling author, historian and broadcaster, discusses the history of pandemics, the development of vaccines, and the impact of diseases on society. They also explore the role of literature in portraying pandemics through novels and plays.
False accusations and misinformation can tarnish the reputation of scientists and hinder progress in disease prevention and control.
Combating denial and promoting evidence-based practices requires ongoing efforts in persuasion, education, and clear communication.
Deep dives
The journey of Valdermaa Hafkeen: From Odessa to India
Valdermaa Hafkeen, a Jew from Odessa, developed a viable cholera vaccine in the late 19th century, which he tested on himself and others. He then traveled to India to conduct comparative trials and establish an institute to fight cholera and the bubonic plague. Despite his successes, Hafkeen's career was marred by false accusations of causing tetanus deaths due to a contaminated batch of vaccine. He was eventually vindicated, but his reputation suffered, and he spent the rest of his life in relative obscurity.
The challenges of disease denial and persuasion
Dealing with disease denial has always been a challenge. Historical examples show that persuasion and education can be effective in combating misinformation and encouraging vaccination. However, the current climate, such as the attacks on Dr. Anthony Fauci during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlights the need for continued efforts to disabuse people of falsehoods and promote evidence-based practices.
Lessons from the history of medicine
The history of medicine reveals the importance of persistence, clear communication, and public trust. Understanding the scientific process and engaging in open dialogue can help confront denial and misinformation surrounding diseases. Efforts must also be made to strike a balance between disease treatment and proactive measures for cultivating overall well-being.
Depictions of medical history in literature
Several novels and plays have explored the themes of pandemics and disease outbreaks. Notable examples include Daniel Defoe's 'A Journal of the Plague Year,' Jean Giono's 'The Horseman on the Roof,' and Giovanni Boccaccio's 'The Decameron.' These works provide powerful narratives that shed light on the societal impact of pandemics and offer historical perspectives on disease control and response.
This is the second instalment a two-part discussion. Bestselling author, historian and broadcaster Simon Schama discusses Foreign Bodies, his new epic history of vulnerable humanity caught between the terror of contagion and the ingenuity of science. Produced in partnership with the British Library, the talk looks at how the narrative of cities and countries engulfed by panic and death, desperate for vaccines but fearful of what inoculation may bring, is one we have seen before in the past as well as during the Covid-19 pandemic. Joining Schama in conversation is our host, Kavita Puri, the award-winning journalist, broadcaster and author of Partition Voices: Untold British Stories.
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