How about calling it a Suppression. Soon to be Oppression.
How about calling it a Suppression. Soon to be Oppression.
Like John McCain used to say ... “You can call it a banana ...”
You do realize that the problem isn't necessarily people becoming sick or the unfortunate fact that some people will in fact die from this that is driving the "flattening of the curve", right? The problem is overwhelming a healthcare system that cannot support the rapid spread of this virus. This is something that often gets lost when discussing mortality, rate of infection, etc. The entire point for everyone staying home at the moment is to prevent the rapid spread of the virus and allow the healthcare system to function. "Flattening the curve" doesn't necessarily reduce the "area under the curve" (total number of infections), but rather spreads it out so the healthcare system can deal with it. This is how you prevent the unnecessary deaths.
For the healthcare system to deal with this there are 2 options; 1) increase the total number of resources within the healthcare system or 2) controlling the spread of the virus though increased testing, home quarantine, avoiding crowds, washing hands, etc. Given the scant lack of resources we have at the moment (see lack of PPEs, lack of ventilators, etc) we are left with option #2. I personally draw the line regarding the current societal measures at the point where the healthcare system can't keep up with the spread of the virus. It is a far more expensive and timely battle if you get behind and are trying to pay catch-up. What do you think would have happened to the economy if we did nothing?
Also, if you are concerned about adding $2 trillion dollars to the national debt, perhaps now would be a good time to discuss with your member of congress about repealing Trumps tax cuts. Total bill for that was also $2 trillion, and the majority of that went to the wealthiest people in the country. Getting that money back and using it to pay for those individuals who are unable to work would certainly help, wouldn't it?
My position has been simple (and free of jargon). A collapsed medical system is unacceptable. To prevent that, the economy did have some leeway for lockdowns - maybe a month's worth. That leeway is almost gone, and a collapsed economy is much more unacceptable.
Given that people who are asymptomatic can easily spread the disease, would you have recommended keeping your own gym or the franchise SS gyms open at this time? Would you have a problem if the CDC later came knocking on your door and told you to shut down your gym as several cases were traced back to it if you did decide to keep it open?
COVID19 Factors We Should Consider
I have already explained my position on this, but I'll say it again: Everything should be open. If you don't want to get sick, stay home. Your problem is that you are a leftist, and you firmly believe the old maxim -- "That which is not mandatory is prohibited."
When the Federal Government can shut down businesses in Texas, your Utopia has been realized and I am outta here.Would you have a problem if the CDC later came knocking on your door and told you to shut down your gym as several cases were traced back to it if you did decide to keep it open?