Epidemics: Widespread Problems, Local Solutions

Radio Uprising

Society has always had large-scale problems, but how do we make sense of them on a local level? On this edition of Radio Uprising, youth producers Jake, Jeremy, Vivianna, and Garrett discuss epidemics from a variety of viewpoints. First, we discuss media representation of epidemics and how repeat visual images paint a certain picture in our minds, leading us to believe epidemics aren't a problem anymore (oh, but they still are). We also discuss people making jokes about epidemics when the situation is often dire and serious. Next, we turn to social epidemics, and ask the question of why some social issues are considered "epidemics" (such as teen pregnancy) and others are not (such as poverty) -- and most importantly, who gets to decide what counts as an epidemic an what does not (and who benefits from making that decision!).

All that, plus we welcome new Radio Uprising producer Garrett and enjoy a round of "bacteria, virus, or parasite?", every epidemiologist's favorite ice-breaker!