Science + Society

UArizona Virtual Lecture Series Examines Transformation during COVID-19

The College of Science and the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Arizona joined forces to present an online series this summer on the past, present, and future of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The series, titled “Science + Society: Transformation during COVID-19,” provided an interdisciplinary perspective on a pandemic that has upended the health and economy of the world, worsened systemic inequality, and challenged our interpersonal ties and personal well-being. Drawing on a range of fields, the series examined the ways the pandemic has changed our lives.

The three conversations in the series paired experts from the two colleges, and their discussions were moderated by award-winning reporter Nancy Montoya. A geneticist and a historian discussed how the history of this pandemic is being constructed. A compassion expert and an audiologist explored how the challenges of this time can help us cultivate empathy and compassion, both for ourselves and others. And a biologist and communication scholar examined the essential role of human perception and behavior on fighting a pandemic – both now and in the future.

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