Social Protocols in the Post-Covid Era
“Since COVID, I’ve witnessed some people backing away when you reach out your hand.”
First, let me destroy the title I just posted. This is a work in progress.
There really isn’t such a thing as a “post-COVID era.” Pandemics will continue to be a threat. Some scientists even insist they’re inevitable. Should you doubt this, I strongly urge listening to Sam Harris’ “Making Sense” podcast #222 with guest Dr. Nicholas Christakis. We’re not out of danger yet, and some sort of masking (and other protocols) will be common for those most at risk. For instance, I plan on flying with a mask on, from now on. And so begins “new social protocols.”
I’m curious to know the thoughts of readers as to what changes–if any–we’ll make (collectively speaking) after COVID. Will business deals still be consummated with handshakes? What about polite kisses on the cheek? Will people hug each other less? Or, might we hug each other more now, given so many people have been cooped up in semi-isolation?
In my recent activities among friends, I noticed almost no changes to social protocols. For instance, handshakes appear to be just as common as before. This is probably a generational thing. People my age learned to shake hands and look people in the eye. It’s not that way with many younger people. Fist and elbow bumps now masquerade as human bonds. I’m not denigrating anyone’s decision as to how to engage others. To each his or her own.
Nonetheless, I have noticed the occasional awkwardness in social situations. I’ve witnessed some people backing away when you reach out your hand. Some people have changed their opinions and behavior on this. Unfortunately, this inevitably does create confusion and some boorish behavior. For example, a “hand-shaker” should not presume it’s 1957 again and go back to pre-COVID social practices.
I’m curious to read your thoughts on changing social behaviors. Have you adjusted how you engage with other people in person? If so, are these adjustments permanent enough to completely recalibrate traditional social conduct? FOLLOW THE DISCUSSION AND COMMENT HERE ON FACEBOOK
Admittedly, I’m confused on this and don’t want to lapse into old habits if there’s going to be a new way ahead.
Times like this makes me wish I had a Facebook account but never have and expect never will. Like a minimal digital footprint. But interesting question and have been giving this some thought as well. My wife and I remain very Covid compliant (isolated) and still get supplies delivered or curbside pick up.
Most people, when they did wear a mask, did not do it correctly. Finally had to go to the Dentist for a cracked tooth and had to request they wear an N95 mask rather than the simple surgical mask with the side gapping……really. Have been vaccinated and boosted but still staying away from my wife for five days to keep her safe.
Expect certainly that we will some day rejoin the human race 🙂 but will not be shaking hands or if I do, will have the spray bottle of 70% alcohol to clean hands after. Not sure when we will feel comfortable going to restaurants etc. but keeping hope for some time in future. Maybe when they have a more effective vaccine or treatment. Have been enjoying your restaurant reviews and videos 🙂 They usually make my mouth water !
I enjoy the outdoors a lot and do a lot of precautions against tick bites to protect against the diseases they carry. All which I never had to do years ago. So expect that continuing to wear mask and modifying behavior with people is not that much different.
Will always endeavor to preserve.
Before I got covid, I was definitely changing my social awareness and greetings to people. Hugging was a bit awkward. Now that I have had covid, I am back to giving hugs and kisses the same as before.