'The Interview': Ed Yong Wants to Show You the Hidden Reality of the World
Feb 22, 2025
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Ed Yong, a Pulitzer Prize-winning science writer known for his insightful reporting during the COVID-19 pandemic, shares his journey through burnout and emotional challenges in journalism. He discusses how bird-watching became a therapeutic escape and a source of hope. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy in reporting, alongside the growing skepticism toward scientific authority. Yong also captivates listeners with the beauty of hummingbirds and touches on his literary work, including his book 'An Immense World'.
Ed Yong highlighted the emotional burden of journalists during the pandemic, emphasizing the distinction between burnout and moral injury stemming from systemic barriers.
Through bird-watching, Yong found a therapeutic escape and a renewed appreciation for nature, illustrating the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Deep dives
The Emotional Toll of Pandemic Reporting
The intense experience of reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic deeply affected the well-being of many journalists. Ed Yong revealed how he personally faced significant emotional strain, experiencing anxiety and depression due to the overwhelming responsibility of conveying complex public health information while witnessing systemic failures. He emphasized the distinction between burnout and a sense of moral injury, noting that it was not merely the difficulty of their work that led to their struggles, but the frustration of being unable to fulfill their roles effectively due to institutional barriers. This sentiment reflects a broader issue faced by healthcare workers during the pandemic, where the disconnect between their aspirations to help and the harsh realities of the situation created a heavy emotional burden.
Value of Empathy in Journalism
Yong articulated the crucial role of empathy in journalism, particularly when reporting on vulnerable populations. He argued that although objectivity is often touted as a key principle, true understanding and representation of people's experiences requires a deeper emotional engagement. Through his pandemic coverage, Yong sought to convey empathy by spending considerable time listening to the struggles of individuals affected by the virus. This approach allows journalists to accurately represent nuanced human experiences while fostering a sense of connection with their audience, which he believes is essential for impactful storytelling.
Continuing Precautions Amid Societal Transition
Yong expressed his commitment to maintaining personal safety measures despite general societal fatigue with COVID-19 precautions. He highlighted the real dangers of long COVID and the need to protect vulnerable individuals in his community, asserting that compliance with health guidelines could provide reassurance to those still cautious. His awareness of the 'panic-neglect cycle,' where urgency around a crisis fades after its peak, ensures his vigilance in a landscape where preparedness seems to wane frequently. Yong believes that continuing to advocate for precautions is not only a personal choice but also a communal responsibility for those who recognize the ongoing risks.
The Transformative Power of Birding
After leaving his position, birding became a therapeutic outlet for Yong, allowing him to reconnect with nature and find joy in his surroundings. He described how observing birds transformed his perspective, shifting from merely accumulating scientific knowledge to fostering deeper appreciation for wildlife's intricacies. A pivotal moment occurred during his first intentional birding trip, which reinforced his understanding of empathy and respect for all forms of life, including the often-overlooked sparrows. This meditative practice not only served as a refuge from the stresses of pandemic journalism but also became a vital aspect of his life, enriching his understanding of the interconnectedness of all living beings.
The Pulitzer Prize-winning science writer talks about burnout from covering the pandemic and how bird-watching gave him a new sense of hope.Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything
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