The Bonding Power of Social DistancingOur June 4th speaker was Wendy L. Patrick JD, PhD, a career trial attorney and commentator on behavioral issues for several major news outlets. Wendy spoke about how while social distancing has brought people closer together virtually, and potential challenges post-COVID 19 to reintegrate society in a humane way.
full report inside.
Report of the Week – Meeting of June 4
by Andreas Runggatscher
by Andreas Runggatscher
The first June virtual luncheon of the Rotary Club of New York in 2020 took place on Zoom on June 4, 2020. The speaker was Wendy L. Patrick JD, PhD, a career trial attorney and commentator on behavioral issues on major news outlets including CNN, Fox News Channel, HLN, and FOX Business Network. Wendy spoke about how while social distancing has brought people closer together virtually, there are potential challenges post-COVID 19 to reintegrate society in a humane way.Wendy spoke about how social disruption resulting from the pandemic has resulted in people expanding their social networks. Without routine social interactions at cafes and other establishments, people are taking advantage of opportunities to reconnect with different groups of people and stretching the boundaries of their interests.
Wendy discussed the unique benefits of in person connection that are no longer taken for granted, such as the ability to read a more comprehensive set of social cues. One of the continuing effects of this pandemic will be a renewed respect for personal space going forward. In addition, automation may start replacing traditionally manual work as safety measures are heightened.
She closed her presentation by speaking about need to empathize with those going through challenging situations and making difficult decisions during this time. Different international Rotary clubs demonstrated interest in Wendy speaking on social distancing and reintegration in their virtual Zoom meetings.