Jim Jones wrote:eltonioni wrote:@Jim Jones for that to matter it that would imply that anyone has any clue about what the right time is, which they don't, so it doesn't. The data is as it is, not how we would like it to be if we had special knowledge or foresight]
At the risk of being political, the UK science advisors gave UK government plenty of warning in the autumn. It was based on science and the experience of the preceding spring.
It was ignored.
No problem Jim, it's not remotely political for me.
Those advisors are also saying that restrictions, masks, etc will have to stay in place for years (specifically, Ch. Epidemiologist). They haven't got a clue so they fall back on strategies of least known immediate risk. It's the default for state employees and particularly medics. You might not have noticed, being on the inside, but it's crystal clear viewed from outside. I say that genuinely with due respect and gratitude for the work being done and the commitment given.
It doesn't change the facts that such an approach is one dimensional guessing at best. At worst it actually harmful to millions of people. From babies who've never seen adults without masks other than their parents, to the people put into penury who jump off the Humber Bridge, it's a tragedy being made by institutional guessing and arris covering.
However, the unseen tragedy poses no risk to their own careers, just more job security! So, who could blame them for digging out the murky crystal ball last used for Brexit and giving it a polish with a greasy rag?
As for the people using the retrospectoscope, especially in politics, I shan't say what I think in polite company.
Middle East Peace Expert. Military strategist. Former economist and epidemiologist.
Not always entirely serious.
-Still learning -