Viral Buzz: Rumour and Its Disruptions in Pandemic Uncertainty
https://doi.org/10.58186/2782-3660-2022-2-3-6-27
Abstract
Building on theory and research on rumour dynamics, I examine how the search for and acquisition of information during a time of medical crisis relies on the politics of plausibility and the politics of credibility. In this, I examine how the content and source of information affects the spread of uncertain knowledge during periods of disaster by taking into account the social dynamics of ignorance, a decisive element for fields of knowledge where the public has little ability to judge. The assertion of multiple truth claims about the current pandemic leads to challenges to previously taken-for-granted realities, but also provides potential solutions. Conditions that require an immediate response may differ from those that evolve over a longer period (fast and slow rumours). Making use of rumours about the COVID19 pandemic, I address how epistemic disruption undercuts established norms (disruption-of) but also creates the possibility of desirable change through new negotiations, strengthening community (disruption-for).
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Review
For citations:
Fine G. Viral Buzz: Rumour and Its Disruptions in Pandemic Uncertainty. Versus. 2022;2(3):6-27. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.58186/2782-3660-2022-2-3-6-27
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