Megan McArdleVerified account

We already, clearly, had a problem communicating our concerns to more conservative people, especially in redder states. That problem just became insuperable. They will trust nothing we say because apparently, we only think the danger is great enough to override their priorities.

So if it turns out that covid-19 can be spread by large gatherings outdoors ... well, I personally will maintain social distance until there's a vaccine or a treatment.

But I'm very afraid that that's about all anyone will be able to do: take personal steps to protect themselves, and hope that others doing the same will slow the spread. And that if it isn't enough, well, it will just spread.

To be clear, I also have every hope that what we'll learn is that covid doesn't spread outside practically at all. If that's the case, the protests will have done us a double public service: pursued racial justice in policing, and shown us how to reopen.

Because if the protests don't spark new outbreaks, it's pretty clear what we should do: America has a ton of asphalt. Move everything outside, as much as possible. Church in the parking lot, school in the playgrounds, turn stores into open-air markets.

Obviously not practical with *everything* but we could regain a lot of American life just by using our massive parking capacity to do stuff outdoors. Bulk-order all the propane heaters from China to prepare for winter.