Physical Distancing Vs. Social Distancing
I think there is a real problem with semantics in the "distancing" program that has been put into place across the globe. I don't know what terminology they are using in countries with different languages, but in the US, the favored term is social distancing.
Social Distancing...
I understand the need to keep people apart to reduce the potential for the spread of the COVID 19 virus. That's an important role for mitigation and "control" over the virus. (I use "control" in parentheses because there is only so much you can do to "control" a virus. My favorite control for a virus is bleach water or 70% alcohol. Take that you virus!)
My question is this: Are we trying to distance people physically? Or socially? If it's the former, then we have been using the wrong terminology. We have been sending the wrong message, even if subconsciously.
Physical Distancing...
The mere act of moving people away from each other does create an element of social distancing. There is the trepidation of people coming in close contact with each other. In our neighborhood, we have noticed some households that seem to have shut up completely. Blinds drawn. Windows closed. They look like abandoned houses. On our walks (yes, we still take our dogs for daily walks, but stay the recommended six feet (or...