Social distancing and mask wearing are the two common covid precautions. However, some are saying that the former is not effective. Former FDA commissioner Scott Gottlieb has recently claimed that too many health policy advocates and scientists have relied too much on an influenza model. That is, covid-19 was assumed to spread in a way similar to the flu – by droplets.  

However, covid is spread by aerosols and droplets, Gottlieb reminded. Therefore, six feet is probably not enough distance to reduce the contagiousness of an air-borne virus. “[I]t really wasn't based on clear science,” Gottlieb said regarding the procedure of six-foot social distancing. This comes on the heels of the CDC announcing that three feet is sufficient social distance if one is wearing a mask. The report was mainly intended for school-age children.

Scientists, healthcare workers, and policy makers have worked tirelessly during the covid pandemic. Surely, these people have done much good for society. However, reports like this remind the informed consumer that experts can be wrong. Furthermore, healthcare workers and scientists are not the best political philosophers. While a researcher or physician may recommend enforced masking and social distancing, a freedom loving citizen may oppose such a mandate. The patriot does not want to eschew science or put people in danger. Rather, he understands that tyranny can come from good intentions. Those who oppose prolonged pandemic emergency powers must be clear WHY they oppose them.

Douglas Phillips is a native Texan, having been born and raised in the Lone Star State. He writes on political philosophy and current events.