Science, Religion, Government, and SARS-CoV-2: A Time for Synergy
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Science, Religion, Government, and SARS‑CoV‑2: A Time for Synergy Barry A. Hong1 · Paul J. Handal2
© Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2020
Abstract Religion, science and government have been institutions throughout the ages that have helped us deal with fears and threats like SARS-CoV-2. However, reliance on any one of these institutions exclusively has limitations and therefore are sources of disappointments. The SARS-CoV-2 is a reminder that we can and need to blend these seemingly divergent views of science, religion and government. Each of these institutions provides ways to cope with this worldwide pandemic but they can exercise a much greater impact if they operate in unison for the common good and wellbeing of all. Keywords Science–Religion–Government · Pandemic · SARS-CoV-2
Introduction On January 20, 2020, the first person in the USA was diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) in the State of Washington. By Easter, April 12, 2020, the diagnosis of Sars-Cov2 was given to 546,874 additional Americans. At the same time, more than 22,000 Americans died as a result of the virus and a worldwide pandemic was well on its way. The pandemic has captured the attention of everyone by disrupting work and personal freedom. Additionally, it has raised health concerns both individually and collectively to levels few could ever imagine. The pandemic has created a radically new normal and recovery of former lives is yet to be determined. For the world, this is our first pandemic and nothing in our personal experience has prepared anyone for its impact. The pandemic raised numerous questions about how the virus could be so disruptive and deadly in the USA. This
* Barry A. Hong [email protected] 1
Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, Campus Box 8134, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
2
Department of Psychology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Journal of Religion and Health
appears to be an unthinkable crisis to many given our advancements in science and technology and one of the best medical care system in the world. The USA always has been a world leader in resolving global and medical problems. As a country, we have always viewed ourselves as the rescuers and providers but never the victims. SARS-CoV-2 is foremost a medical and public health problem. However, the pandemic has also brought with its health threat profound psychological damage and distress not only to infected patients but also to their families, friends, and the general population. Virtually everyone will have some level of psychological pain and distress as a result of the pandemic. The psychological injury may not rise to the level of a formal psychiatric or psychological disorder but instead will be more like a chronic state of distress and insecurity. Even when people are functional again and able to resume some of their former life, periodic feelings of dread and impending doom may be close to the surface.
Psychological Resili
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