The Political Scar of Epidemics

Contributor(s): Professor Chris Anderson, Professor Barry Eichengreen | Epidemics pose a stress test for governments. Political officials and institutions face the challenge of assembling information and mounting effective interventions against a rapidly spreading and potentially catastrophic disease. They must communicate that information, describe their policies, and, importantly, convince the public of their trustworthiness. If they fail, they may create long-lasting scars in the minds of their citizens, especially on the young generation. This panel will discuss what the political and economic legacy of COVID-19 may be, and how it may shape the public attitude toward political leaders, governments and democracies in the long-term. Chris Anderson (@soccerquant) is Professor in European Politics and Policy at LSE's European Institute. Barry Eichengreen (@B_Eichengreen) is George C. Pardee and Helen N. Pardee Professor of Economics and Political Science at University of California, Be