Even after strict coronavirus-related lockdowns ended, many people across the country still avoided malls, restaurants and other businesses. The shift in behavior points to a reshaping of American commerce, fueling questions about the strength and speed of the economic recovery.
LEO co-founder Bill Evans and faculty affiliate Chris Cronin released a study that shows many people stopped going out due to COVID-19. The researchers were looking at the basic trends of social gatherings, establishment closures, and social distancing.
"It's Econ 1010," said Professor Cronin. "People are weighing the costs and benefits of leaving their homes and exposing themselves to risk."