For some time I keep imagining fantasy world in which all nations are divided into two kinds based on their response to diseases. #TLDR
The First World is heavily vaccinated and augmented, highly sterile and very conscious about disease prevention. They almost eradicated even common and relatively harmless illnesses and advances in healthcare resulted in much longer lifespans. This also means they can't afford recklessness - like getting even minor injuries so many forfeit outdoor activities for example. They are very careful with dietary choices. Their society is all about safety because everyone deserves their average life of two centuries.
The Second World is living closer to nature. It is not like they deny healthcare or safety but they are more practical and fatalistic - maybe not exactly "live fast, die young" kind of people but certainly leaning in that direction. Freedom is put before safety because the purpose of safety is to serve freedom. Everyone dies but not... show moreFor some time I keep imagining fantasy world in which all nations are divided into two kinds based on their response to diseases. #
TLDR The First World is heavily vaccinated and augmented, highly sterile and very conscious about disease prevention. They almost eradicated even common and relatively harmless illnesses and advances in healthcare resulted in much longer lifespans. This also means they can't afford recklessness - like getting even minor injuries so many forfeit outdoor activities for example. They are very careful with dietary choices. Their society is all about safety because everyone deserves their average life of two centuries.
The Second World is living closer to nature. It is not like they deny healthcare or safety but they are more practical and fatalistic - maybe not exactly "live fast, die young" kind of people but certainly leaning in that direction. Freedom is put before safety because the purpose of safety is to serve freedom. Everyone dies but not everyone lives. Even if it is just for 70 years.
It is unthinkable for the First World to let flu or an accident to take an extra life. Nothing is too much if it helps to prevent it. It is unthinkable for the Second World to lock down communities because of pandemic risks unless bodies start piling up or ban coffee and alcohol.
There is very little physical contact between the Worlds. It is simply lethal for the First World residents to get close to anything Second World because of little pathogen tolerance or other risks. Second Worlders see nothing for themselves on the other side. Each World sees the values of another one as hostile, inhuman and clear existential threat. This results in rapid radicalization and no one is left in the middle.
I am not sure which one I would choose. Not that inhabitants of the Worlds can choose.
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thoughts
