Random thoughts based on the last few pages of posts:
Tragedies are tragedies because they cause loss. Catastrophes are catastrophes because they destroy things. There is no way to escape loss and destruction in this pandemic. In the end, the "cure" could be as catastrophic, or even more catastrophic, than the disease. However, we don't know that. We do know that people are dying in significant and unique numbers (though some dispute even that). So, absent evidence to the contrary, any decision that saves lives is probably the right decision. I can't fathom arguing otherwise, but that's because I believe in the value of life. That's a personal value statement. Others may believe economic well-being is more important.
Faith is belief in things not seen. When I read "I believe it's true" I see "but there is no evidence that it's true." I remember in grad school getting dropped a letter grad anytime I used the word "believe" instead of "think" in a paper, even if I showed the evidence. Science is absolutely not about belief, but about what is evidenced. I'm much more comfortable making decisions that affect the lives of others on evidence rather than belief.
An example: Florida's extension of the quarantine of the Tri-State area is based on belief (cultural/political dogmas, most likely), not science, and is wholly without merit due to lack of evidence and inconsistent application. The Tri-State area quarantine of Florida is based on evidence - set standards that, if met, will result in the quarantine being lifted. Florida's quarantine will be lifted, presumably, when . . . Well, there's no way to predict that because it's based on whim.
Nobody in their right mind is going to hold an opinion they believe, think, or know to be wrong, so of course everybody thinks their opinions are right. Presumably they will weigh the evidence presented in any discussion to determine if they need to revise their opinions.
Reading these threads is very interesting. I oddly learn a bit as well as come away deeply disturbed.
