> The problem is, someone asking the second question in today's hyper-polarized world is somehow equated to being an anti-science, self-serving politically motivated miscreant.

I disagree. The people being called anti-science and liars are not asking the second question at all, but instead wanting to act like there is no virus. Big difference.

Truly asking the second question, which everyone else seems to ask and evaluate constantly, is what gradient of lockdown works for what situation.