StarTalk Radio Social Networks and Ending the Pandemic with Nicholas Christakis
Jan 18, 2022
Nicholas Christakis, a Yale professor and expert in sociology and medicine, dives into the fascinating interplay of social networks and disease spread. He discusses the historical context of pandemics, revealing how misinformation can ripple through communities. Christakis shares insights from his book 'Apollo's Arrow', reflecting on COVID-19's societal impact. The conversation explores innovative public health strategies, predicting a cultural resurgence post-pandemic, and emphasizes the need to combat misinformation with understanding.
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Terracotta Pots and Plagues
- During the Plague of Justinian, a rumor spread that throwing terracotta pots out of windows would ward off the plague.
- This made walking in the city more dangerous due to falling pots than the plague itself.
Misinformation Spread
- The spread of misinformation, like the 5G conspiracy theory, follows similar patterns as the spread of germs.
- Lies and misinformation have historically followed plagues, impacting their severity.
Plagues and Power Shifts
- Plagues often create opportunities for demagogues to rise to power by exploiting suffering.
- The bubonic plague led to political and social upheaval, paving the way for new forms of government and scientific thought.
