21. How a False Rumor Sparked a Crisis in New Haven, USA
In the city of New Haven, USA, a false rumor about a supposed dangerous virus outbreak in 2024 spreads rapidly on social media. This misinformation, initiated by a fringe blogger, John Doe, causes widespread panic. Local news stations like NHN initially report the rumor without proper fact-checking, exacerbating the situation.
Individual outcomes
Residents like Sarah, a mother of two, become overly cautious, leading to unnecessary panic and resource hoarding.
Societal outcomes
Societally, this misinformation strains local resources and erodes trust in media and health institutions. Tensions grow between people as they struggle to compete for scarce resources and behaviours become less rational, more emotional and aggressive.
Competences involved in this scenario:
Social systems affected by this scenario:
M3. Role of media in democracy
M4. Facts and opinions
M6. Claim verification
Healthcare Providers
Media
Public Safety Organizations
Government