croe04 wrote: ↑Tue Mar 24, 2020 7:53 am
Can we stop drawing unfounded comparisons to other countries? Sick of hearing 'oh because x happened in [insert country], x is gonna happen to us'.
This not only induces more panic, it also is completely untrue. Circumstances matter, a lot.
On a more positive note, while we are among the top 20 countries in terms of number of cases, among those 20 countries we have the second lowest net fatality rate at 0.32%.
croe, I respect your opinion, truly do, and you are correct.
Unfortunately it is a conundrum.
"unfounded" is a perspective notion though. I would probably agree with your comment if the comparisons were said to be "ludicrous" comparisons. Yes, ludicrous is a perspective notion as well but better describes the effect.
Governments us comparisons as a "loose" snapshot as a comparison, to formulate their own strategies. Yes, not ideal as every country, people, demographic, culture etc are different for every country. But with limited known knowledge, what else can we do ????
The Conundrum is:
Comparisons used to instil concern, can also cause panic.
BUT
Comparisons used to instil calm, can also cause complacency.
The statistic that you quoted (comparing other countries, so it is somewhat unavoidable), you have to acknowledge, is a snap shot taken "now" , even though each country is at a different stage of their own curve line. Is it an accurate gauge, who knows ????
Secondly, that snapshot statistic, is taken of curves who's trajectory are somewhat still going upwards, and on pattern, a fair few are increasing exponentially. How this fits in to Australia's success and strategy , , , , who knows.
In my opinion, a very important and relevant statistic, to gauge where Australia is heading is.
What and how are the countries fairing if you divide them into these two categories;
Counties that compel citizens (if not "enforce") them into social obedience , verses , Countries where social liberties and freedom are accommodated (if not) vehemently defended?
This would truly show , , , , if social distancing or lockdown works, as apposed to in being in place (and not adhered to).
Cheers, Bugatti