Why Different Regions Respond Differently to COVID-19

America is a collection of 11 separate "nations," each with its own origin story, values and culture. The main divide between these nations is whether they place more value in the common good or individual freedom. This is the gist of a theory from historian and journalist Colin Woodard, who applies the theory in a recent article to explain why different regions respond to the coronavirus pandemic differently.

For example, residents of New England and the Upper Midwest – "Yankeedom," per Woodard – quickly limited their travel this spring, a decision which reflects the values of the religious congregations which colonized this region. This group of early Americans believed broadly in self-denial on behalf of the common good.

In contrast, "Greater Appalachia" reacted with far greater skepticism to the virus, resisting travel restrictions. This area, which stretches from western Virginia through central Texas, reflects the values of its Scottish and Irish settlers, people who came to America with a deep distrust for centralized authority and a commitment to personal sovereignty.

A New York Times map brings these differences to life, showing the percent change in travel by county for the week of March 23 as compared to the week of February 28, before the coronavirus outbreak began.