vitrínist

A vitrínist is a term that emerged in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in relation to the concept of "social distancing" and public health measures. It describes an individual who, while outwardly appearing to adhere to social distancing guidelines or other public health mandates, does so in a superficial or performative manner. The term suggests a focus on being seen to be compliant rather than genuinely adopting the behaviors for their intended purpose.

This behavior might manifest in various ways, such as maintaining a physical distance from others only when directly observed, or complying with mask-wearing rules only when in public spaces where enforcement is likely. The "vitrínist" is perceived as someone prioritizing their public image or avoiding social disapproval over a deep-seated commitment to the underlying public health principles. The word itself is a portmanteau, combining "vitrine," referring to a display case or a place for public exhibition, with the suffix "-ist," denoting a person who adheres to a practice or belief.

The concept highlights a nuanced aspect of human behavior during times of crisis, where individual actions are subject to public scrutiny and social pressures. It acknowledges that compliance with regulations can be driven by a range of motivations, from genuine concern to a desire to conform to societal expectations or avoid penalties. The term serves as a critical observation of such behaviors, suggesting a lack of authentic engagement with the imposed measures.