Summary: Dread

Exploring the interplay between fear and fantasy, this book examines how societal anxieties have shaped responses to epidemics throughout history, from the Black Death to modern outbreaks like Avian Flu. Alcabes delves into the psychological and cultural dimensions of disease, highlighting how perceptions of threat can influence public health actions and personal behaviors. By analyzing historical case studies, he reveals the profound impact of fear on both individual lives and collective societal responses during health crises.