The coronavirus, : death knell for global trade? I have written in a hilarious and sarcastic manner in the past, as anybody who has read my other blogs can attest, but this one is very certainly not. We are at the brink of global economic collapse. Everyone, I included, is hoping that either by some medical miracle or by rapidly stopping the virus’s spread, we can get out of this fast. But what happens if it doesn’t and this fear lasts for a few months or longer? These days, trustworthy data are available to profile the instances of afflicted individuals who have passed away. The elderly population and those with underlying medical conditions are strongly associated with mortality rates. China and Italy, the two nations with the greatest mortality tolls, have elderly populations, high rates of smoking, and a culture that does not place much emphasis on leading healthy lives. The national health institute of Italy reports that, based on an analysis of the medical histories of 18% of the victims—or around 450 cases—people with pre-existing medical conditions accounted for 99% of the fatalities. Over 75% of the population had excessive blood pressure, followed by diabetes (35%), and heart disease (30%). The victims are 79.5 years old on average. Since the virus is spreading quickly, mayors and governors around the country have taken drastic steps. Both small and big businesses are developing rapidly while yet becoming hampered. In other words, we are seeing the destruction of the economy. People look to Washington for a lifeline, even if the government’s capacity to provide financial assistance is essentially symbolic. No organization or strategy can make up for lost or future revenue. As usual, the media has incited needless alarm and frenzy. It would seem from a plethora of prior examples—including coverage of crime, war, natural catastrophes, etc.—that this is their goal. Their slogan is hyperbole. The estimated number of COVID-19 fatalities each day is much outnumbered by the number of deaths per day from the common flu, strokes, heart attacks, auto accidents, gunshots, etc. Where is the media’s comparison of those fatalities to the coronavirus? In relation to the number of confirmed or estimated cases, where is the emphasis on COVID-19 recoveries? Where are the victim profiles from the data that would counterbalance this mania? The medical community uses binary thinking.either white or black. The need to assess an issue and provide a single solution is enforced by medical training. Their diagnosis is accurate the majority of the time, but not always. Not many physicians, despite their brilliance, possess a reasonable sense of pragmatism. Patients take their advise into consideration, balance it appropriately, and sometimes seek a second or third opinion, particularly in cases that are urgent. The coronavirus is a serious problem, and decision-makers should take a broader view and consider the effects of a worldwide downturn. Drastic measures have been imposed by dictatorial mayors and governors, despite the fact that the majority of elected officials lack formal business or medical expertise. Reelection and political correctness are their main concerns. Without challenging these decrees, the great majority of people accept them without doubt. Who can argue with physicians and scientists?Since they are the smartest, shouldn’t we obey their orders without question? Undoubtedly, there is a claim that although a corporation may be replaced, a person’s life cannot. However, global pandemics and epidemics, along with climate change and economic instability, are all part of the natural cycle. The general consensus is that technology and science can resolve every problem. Yes, such cures could lessen the harm in the short term, but punitive measures only delay what is unavoidable in cycles where everything is interconnected. I am 69 years old and, despite my excellent health, am officially in the target risk area. On the other hand, I would barricade myself in my house and tell everyone to leave if I had a serious illness. I would make arrangements for someone to pick up my medicines or go grocery shopping and bring them to my front door without coming into direct touch with me. Everyone is able to choose that. Nonetheless, the large population cannot be forced to self-quarantine by a few. I beg you to take a step back and consider this.Ask questions about everything.