Reframing the Relationship Between Public Health Authorities and the Public: A Historical and Global Perspective

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the fore the complex and often contentious relationship between public health authorities and the public. A significant aspect of this dynamic is the concept of “problem publics,” referring to groups or populations that do not adhere to health advice. However, this is not a new phenomenon, as evidenced by the contributors to this collection.

A Historical and Global Examination of Problem Publics

The chapters in this book explore the creation and management of problem publics across various time periods and geographical locations, shedding light on both the specific and particular aspects of this phenomenon. By adopting a historical and global perspective, the authors reveal that public health authorities have long viewed certain groups or populations as problematic, citing their behavior, identity, or location as the primary causes of concern.

However, this framing is not without its challenges. Publics themselves have consistently resisted and contested their designation as problem publics, highlighting the limitations and flaws in this approach. The contributors to this collection argue that there are, and continue to be, significant problems with seeing publics as problems, and that a more nuanced and collaborative approach is necessary.

About the Book

Published by Manchester University Press, this collection of essays provides a comprehensive examination of the complex relationship between public health authorities and the public. With a total of 216 pages, this hardcover book offers a rich and thought-provoking exploration of the concept of problem publics.

Book Details:

• Publisher: Manchester University Press
• Publication Date: February 21, 2023
• Language: English
• Pages: 216
• ISBN-10: 152615675X
• ISBN-13: 978-1526156754