Publics and their health: Historical problems and perspectives (Social Histories of Medicine, 45) ()
By Alex Mold, Peder Clark, Hannah J. Elizabeth
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a renewed interest in the relationship between public health authorities and the public. Particular attention has been paid to ‘problem publics’ who do not follow health advice. This is not a new issue. As the chapters in this collection demonstrate, the designation of certain groups or populations as problem publics has long been a part of health policy and practice. By exploring the creation and management of these problem publics in a range of time periods and geographical locations, the collection sheds light on what is both specific and particular. For health authorities, publics themselves were often thought to pose problems, because of their behaviour, identity or location. But publics could and did resist this framing. There were, and continue to be, many problems with seeing publics as problems.
Introducing a timely and thought-provoking collection of essays, “Problem Publics and Public Health: Management and Resistance” explores the complex relationship between public health authorities and the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. Authored by Alex Mold, Peder Clark, and Hannah J. Elizabeth, this book delves into the historical and geographical dimensions of the creation and management of “problem publics” throughout various time periods and locations.
As the global health crisis continues to unfold, public health authorities are grappling with the challenge of ensuring that their messages and recommendations are effectively communicated and understood by the public. However, not all individuals and groups adhere to health advice, leading to increased scrutiny and labeling as “problem publics.” This book shines a critical light on this phenomenon, exploring the reasons behind the designation of certain populations or groups as problematic and the subsequent resistance faced by these publics.
Throughout the chapters, the authors highlight the inherent complexities and nuances of public health discourse. Over the years, authorities have identified various factors, such as behavior, identity, and location, that contribute to the classification of publics as problems. However, this framing is not without its flaws, and the publics themselves have often contested and resisted this categorization.
By delving into different historical periods and geographical contexts, “Problem Publics and Public Health” showcases the specific and particular aspects of the relationship between health authorities and the public. It highlights the intricate power dynamics, social structures, and cultural influences that shape both the management and resistance of problem publics.
Published by Manchester University Press, this collection promises a rigorous exploration of the complexities surrounding public health and problem publics. The multidisciplinary approach adopted by the authors offers valuable insights to scholars, researchers, and practitioners in the fields of public health, sociology, anthropology, and history.
With 216 pages, this digital eBook provides an in-depth examination of the topic. The language used is English, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of readers. The book’s ISBN-10 is 152615675X, and the ISBN-13 is 978-1526156754, making it easy to locate and order.
Order your copy of “Problem Publics and Public Health: Management and Resistance” today to gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics between public health authorities and the public. Discover the intricacies of problem framing, resistance, and the limitations of viewing publics simply as problems. This book will challenge your perspectives and broaden your knowledge of public health discourse in the face of global crises.
Product Details
- Publisher : Manchester University Press (February 21, 2023)
- Language : English
- Hardcover : 216 pages
- ISBN-10 : 152615675X
- ISBN-13 : 978-1526156754