New article: Government in a pandemic by Dr Tom Hancocks

A new article for The Conversation explores how the Coronavirus has caused a dramatic shift in our relationship with the state.

“Is it acceptable for the state to take control of our healthcare decisions in order to protect us?”

Dr Tom Hancocks asks this question, and explores the complexity of a solution, in his new article for The Conversation.

“There are two sides to the argument. The case against increased state control appeals to the value of individual autonomy over health choices,” explains Dr Hancocks.

“The case in favour appeals to the importance of paternalism and harm prevention. These values sit at opposite ends of a moral and legal spectrum. Our view on government restrictions is shaped by how we, as individuals, weigh up the relative importance of these two competing principles.”

Read ‘Government in a pandemic: How coronavirus caused a dramatic shift in our relationship with the state’.