What next - ethics and our societies?

Dr. Venkatapuram outlined two key ethical considerations for societies and the individuals within them, namely us! Both of these have implications for our behaviour and actions, as individuals and societies.

The first is a hugely important consideration as we approach the end of this course – compassion. The COVID-19 pandemic is a clear and tragic example of the interdependence of our health as a global society.

This interdependence highlights the mutual responsibility that we all have to each other. This mutual responsibility for health has never been more important than it is now, as we emerge from a global pandemic.

The behaviours and actions that we take, individually and collectively, can determine the state of global health in the coming months and years.

Secondly, we heard about the importance of social activism – action that intends to create social change.

This highlights the role of individuals and societies in holding government’s and organisations accountable for protecting our health and rights. In the coming months, this will include reviewing decisions and actions, as well as joining the conversation about the next steps and the future.

These two considerations provide helpful guidance in understanding the next steps and behaviours discussed this week for individuals, groups, and systems.