TPL and Ryerson University present: Spike, The Virus vs The People

The Covid-19 pandemic has cast a searing light on the fraught relationship between science, politics and democracy. On the one hand, scientists and public health specialists have developed novel vaccines and effective safety protocols with astonishing speed, saving the lives of millions in many western democracies. On the other hand, politicians and citizens have questioned, distrusted and resisted scientific advice in the name of individual rights and political freedom, in a populist age where the concepts of expertise, objectivity and truth are under assault. Arguably, never before has scientific research, with its uncertainties and contradictions, been conducted under such pressure, scrutiny and transparency in real time. The pandemic, given the resistance of anti-vax proponents in many western democracies and the severe inequalities of vaccine distribution in much of the global South, continues to unfold.

What is the normal relationship between science and politics in our democracies? How have our leaders handled this relationship, and the nexus between authority and consent, during the pandemic? What is the ideal balance in a global emergency?

The Financial Times science columnist, Anjana Ahuja, analyzes how these issues played out in the United Kingdom, and the wider lessons we need to embrace, in conversation with Sanjay Ruparelia.

About this event's guests:
Anjana Ahuja
Sanjay Ruparelia

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This event is co-sponsored by the Canadian International Council.

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This event is part of our On Civil Society series.

Generously supported in part by Chris M. Reid

On the Frontlines of Democracy is a new public lecture series to analyze its prospects in the twenty-first century. Around the world, democracies face serious challenges, old and new. Can we protect our constitutional democracies in an era of popular mistrust, severe partisanship and resurgent nationalism? Can they reduce inequalities of power, wealth and status, defend deep diversity and confront climate change in the new digital age? Can we develop innovative strategies to revitalize civic engagement and empower public institutions to renew the promise of collective self-rule? And what can Canada offer, learn and do to promote the prospects of democracy, in a spirit of mutual learning, in our post-western world?

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Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca

Anjana Ahuja: Spike, The Virus vs The People