Published Apr 12, 2021

An Unfinished Lesson

Historian Nancy Bristow delves into the enduring impact of the 1918 influenza pandemic on literature, art, and society, revealing parallels to the COVID-19 crisis in terms of cultural reactions, social inequities, and public health challenges, while underscoring the importance of trust in institutions.

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Dexa/Shankar Vedantam

An Unfinished Lesson

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Class and Compassion

Pandemic Response Lessons

Pandemic Reactions

The 1918 Pandemic

Trust in Public Health

Pandemic Inequities

Gender and the Flu

Pandemic Perspectives

Virus on the Frontlines

Pandemic Memories

Inequities in Healthcare

Pandemic Perspectives

Pandemic Decision-Making

Deadly Influenza Waves

Episode Highlights

Cultural Reactions

Social Inequities

Historical Parallels

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Radio Replay: Crime As A Disease

Making the World Sparkle Again

Our Animal Instincts

Don't Panic!

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Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

Cultural ReactionsThe 1918 influenza pandemic left a lasting impact on literature and art, capturing the emotional and societal upheaval of the time. Nancy Bristow explores how these cultural artifacts serve as historical records, offering insights into human behavior during public health crises.

Cultural Reactions

Social InequitiesHistorian Nancy Bristow examines how class and racial disparities have historically influenced pandemic outcomes, drawing parallels between the 1918 influenza and COVID-19. She reveals how these inequities continue to shape public health responses and societal attitudes.

Social Inequities

Historical Parallels

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