Public Value Conflict: Lives Versus Livelihoods

The aim of this chapter is to examine the notion of value conflicts and value pluralism in the context of the pandemic, particularly in the value conflict that is purported to exist between preserving lives (public health measures) and livelihoods (maintaining economic activity). This "lives vs. livelihoods" (LVL) conflict surfaced across all societies during the Covid-19 pandemic, but the chapter critically assesses whether such a value conflict is context-dependent, a politically expedient exaggeration, or a false dilemma altogether. The chapter reviews the literature on value conflict and applies both strong and weak versions of the PV strategic triangle to understand the underlying arguments in LVL, while also examining other value conflicts that have erupted during the pandemic. The findings of the chapter suggest that, even though the LVL trade-off may have merits in some cases, overall the trade-off is very vulnerable to exaggerations. This is because there is an interconnexion between a healthy public and an economically dynamic one, and so measures must be taken to maximize public value through both public health and economic measures.