Publication Type

News Article

Version

acceptedVersion

Publication Date

8-2020

Abstract

A multi-generational pandemic has afflicted economies and convulsed worldwide health systems putting policymakers on prongs of an unthinkable trinity of choice: life, liberty or the pursuit of happiness? These inalienable rights guaranteed by the US Declaration of Independence seem farcical with three of largest four democracies in the world accounting for the highest infections. In this opinion piece, we re-evaluate the clichéd debate between life and livelihood. Second, we investigate the implementation hurdles faced by the frontline medical policymakers expediting testing regimes and vaccine development to avert an unfolding catastrophe. Medical professional are opting for mitigation strategies like isolating infections through targeted contact tracing until wide spread near universal testing for Covid19 is possible, despite pushback for socio-politico expediencies. Finally, we narrate a hitherto seldom heard perspective of a divorce lawyer on the impact of social isolation on the family dynamics and the human mind. In the denouement, the triumph of the human spirit augurs the pursuit of happiness only through shared social responsibility during an unprecedented global crisis.

Keywords

COVID-19, pandemics, happiness

Discipline

Asian Studies | Public Health | Social Welfare

Research Areas

Finance; Strategy and Organisation

Publication

Business Times (Singapore)

First Page

18

Last Page

18

ISSN

1733-8179

Publisher

Singapore Press Holdings

External URL

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion/life-liberty-or-the-pursuit-of-happiness-in-a-post-covid-19-era

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