"Enemies of the People?" Public Health in the Era of Populist Politics Comment on "The Rise of Post-truth Populism in Pluralist Liberal Democracies: Challenges for Health Policy".

Martin Mckee,David Stuckler

doi:10.15171/ijhpm.2017.46

Abstract

In this commentary, we review the growth of populist politics, associated with exploitation of what has been termed fake news. We explore how certain words have been used in similar contexts historically, in particular the term "enemy of the people," especially with regard to public health. We then set out 6 principles for public health professionals faced with these situations. First, using their epidemiological skills, they can provide insights into the reasons underlying the growth of populist politics. Second using their expertise in modelling and health impact assessment, they can anticipate and warn about the consequences of populist policies. Third, they can support the institutions that are necessary for effective public health. Fourth they can reclaim the narrative, rejecting hatred and division, to promote social solidarity. Fifth, they can support fact checking and the use of evidence. Finally, they should always remember the lessons of history, and in particular, the way that public health has, on occasions, collaborated with totalitarian and genocidal regimes.

Highlights

In the accompanying paper, Speed and Mannion discuss the rise of populist politics in liberal democracies, and in particular, the role played by fake news.[1]
Often based on outright lies, have been gaining support in other countries, in some, such as the Netherlands and Germany, there is some evidence that people are recoiling in horror from what they see in the United States
What should public health do at a time when the populist politicians in the ascendant in many countries reject scientific evidence, replacing it with fake news? How to they respond to those who sow divisions in society, employing the long-established tactic of divide and rule? These are not hypothetical questions

Summary

Introduction

In the accompanying paper, Speed and Mannion discuss the rise of populist politics in liberal democracies, and in particular, the role played by fake news.[1]. Often based on outright lies, have been gaining support in other countries, in some, such as the Netherlands and Germany, there is some evidence that people are recoiling in horror from what they see in the United States.

Results

Conclusion