The simple fabric face mask is a key agent in the fight against the global spread of COVID-19.
However beyond its role as a protective covering against coronavirus infection the face mask
is the bearer of powerful symbolic and political power and arouses intense emotions. Adopting
an international perspective informed by social theory The Face Mask in COVID Times: A
Sociomaterial Analysis offers an intriguing and original investigation of the social cultural
and historical dimensions of face-masking as a practice in the age of COVID. Rather than Beck's
'risk society' we are now living in a 'COVID society' the long-term effects of which have yet
to be experienced or imagined. Everything has changed. The COVID crisis has generated novel
forms of sociality and new ways of living and moving through space and time. In this new world
the face mask has become a significant object positioned as one of the key ways people can
protect themselves and others from infection with the coronavirus. The face mask is rich with
symbolic meaning as well as practical value. In the words of theorist Jane Bennett the face
mask has acquired a new 'thing-power' as it is coming together with human bodies in these times
of uncertainty illness and death. The role of the face mask in COVID times has been the
subject of debate and dissension arousing strong feelings. The historical and cultural
contexts in which face masks against COVID contagion are worn (or not worn) are important to
consider. In some countries such as Japan and other East Asian nations face mask wearing has
a long tradition. Full or partial facial coverings such as veiling is common practice in
regions such as the Middle East. In many other countries including most countries in the
Global North most people beyond health care workers have little or no experience of face
masks. They have had to learn how to make sense of face masking as a protective practice and
how to incorporate face masks into their everyday practices and routines. Face masking
practices have become highly political. The USA has witnessed protests against face mask
wearing that rest on 'sovereign individualism' a notion which is highly specific to the
contemporary political climate in that country. Face masks have also been worn to make
political statements: bearing anti-racist statements for example but also Trump campaign
support. Meanwhile celebrities and influencers have sought to advocate for face mask wearing
as part of their branding while art makers museums designers and novelty fashion
manufacturers have identified the opportunity to profit from this sudden new market. Face masks
have become a fashion item as well as a medical device: both a way of signifying the wearer's
individuality and beliefs and their ethical stance in relation to the need to protect their own
and others' health. The Face Mask in COVID Times: A Sociomaterial Analysis provides a short and
accessible analysis of the sociomaterial dimensions of the face mask in the age of COVID-19.
The book presents seven short chapters and an epilogue. We bring together sociomaterial
theoretical perspectives with compelling examples from public health advice and campaigns
anti-mask activism as well as popular culture (news reports blog posts videos online
shopping sites art works) to illustrate our theoretical points and use Images to support our
analysis.
