The Stockdale Paradox and the Pandemic

With the current status of the pandemic, I’m reminded of the Stockdale Paradox. This is a concept advocated by Admiral James Stockdale who was a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War. To paraphrase: when in a horrific situation, we must have faith in a positive outcome and do everything possible to make that happen while at the same time being brutally honest about how difficult our situation is. We are facing a critical time in the pandemic. There is hope on the horizon with the vaccines but we must not let down our guard. We need to get vaccinated when the vaccines are available but need to be brutally honest that the danger still exists for everyone, and we need to maintain our diligence to wear masks, socially distance and avoid large gatherings. Stay safe and healthy.