Conspiracists believe nationwide emergency alert system test will cause illness and turn people into zombies. Debunking the conspiracy theory that the Pfizer vaccine contains graphene oxide. Exploring inconsistencies and incoherence of a cell phone conspiracy theory. Humorous suggestions on detoxing from chemtrails and showcasing tin foil hat TikTok videos. Discussion on viral video and the increasing animalistic behavior of people. Unintended consequences of CDC's zombie apocalypse campaign. Exploring connections between zombie apocalypse portrayals and social fears.
The fear of zombies is a reflection of anxiety about the blurring of the line between humans and technology, and the loss of control over ourselves in an increasingly technological society.
The upcoming nationwide emergency alert test on October 4th has been the subject of conspiracy theories linking it to the potential activation of nanoparticles and the transformation into zombies, but these fears lack evidence and are unfounded.
The anxiety surrounding technology, government control, and zombification draws inspiration from the mythology surrounding zombies, incorporating themes of government manipulation and the fear of losing control over ourselves and society.
Deep dives
Anxiety around technology and zombies
There is a growing anxiety around the blurring of the line between humans and technology, leading to fears of losing control over ourselves. This anxiety is reflected in the fear of zombies, which are beings without free will or control. In an increasingly technological society where we rely on advanced biotechnology and platforms controlled by powerful individuals and institutions, the lack of control and understanding can contribute to these fears. The anxiety is further fueled by the belief that technology and government entities are manipulating human beings and potentially unleashing a zombie apocalypse. However, these anxieties are unfounded and lack evidence. October 4th, which is associated with a nationwide test of the emergency alert system, has been the focus of conspiracy theories linking it to the activation of nanoparticles in the human body and the potential transformation into zombies. These theories are based on misinformation and misunderstandings of scientific concepts. As the date passes without any significant events, it becomes clear that these fears are unfounded and lack any real basis.
Misperceptions about emergency alert tests
There are misperceptions regarding the purpose and effects of emergency alert tests, such as the upcoming nationwide test on October 4th. While some conspiracists interpret these tests as potentially catastrophic events that could spread illness and disease, such interpretations are completely baseless. The tests are routine and serve as a means of ensuring that emergency alert systems are functioning properly in the event of an actual emergency. They are not intended to cause harm or transform individuals into zombies. Contrary to these misconceptions, the test can be disregarded or individuals can choose to opt out of receiving alerts. The belief that turning off devices or placing them in faraday cages can prevent the alerts from being received is also inaccurate, as the signals will still be transmitted regardless.
Influence of zombie mythology on conspiracy theories
Conspiracy theories related to technology, government control, and zombification draw inspiration from the mythology surrounding zombies. Zombie narratives have evolved from reflecting racist beliefs to incorporating themes of government manipulation and loss of control. The link between government actions and the zombie archetype can be seen in conspiracies involving assumed manipulation of zombie-like masses by elite forces. Anti-Semitic tropes can also be observed in conspiracy theories that suggest nefarious intentions behind government actions and technologies. The anxiety surrounding the blurring of the lines between humans and technology, and the fear of losing control, is reflected in the fusion of zombie mythology and conspiracy theories.
The CDC's zombie preparedness campaign
The CDC's zombie preparedness campaign, which gained attention in 2011, used humor and pop culture references to educate the public about emergency preparedness. The campaign included a blog post, which garnered significant attention, leading to inquiries from concerned individuals about zombie-related preparations. While the campaign was successful in engaging the public, there is no evidence to suggest that it achieved the CDC's goals of education and action. In subsequent studies, participants exposed to the zombie-themed information did not show higher retention or increased likelihood of emergency preparedness compared to those exposed to more straightforward preparedness information. This highlights the limitations of using pop culture references in emergency readiness campaigns.
Psychosocial factors behind anxiety about technology and zombies
The anxiety surrounding technology and zombies can be attributed to several psychosocial factors. The increasing integration of advanced technology into our lives, combined with a loss of control over this technology, can contribute to fears of becoming like zombies, mindlessly controlled by external forces. Additionally, anxiety about losing control over oneself and society is reflected in the belief that powerful entities manipulate individuals through technology and government actions. These anxieties tap into deep-seated fears of being overwhelmed by technology and losing autonomy. Ultimately, these fears are not grounded in reality, and the belief in a zombie apocalypse or technological takeover is unfounded.
On October 4th FEMA, in conjunction with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA).
For those of us in the normie world, this is a dull bureaucratic event. But conspiracists, it’s something much more — a potentially catastrophic event. One that will spread illness and disease that may even transform people into zombies.
In this episode, we dive into the conspirituality gurus who started this bonkers rumor, how it borrowed from earlier conspiracy theories, and how it took a life on its own among online conspiracists.
REFERENCES
FEMA and FCC Plan Nationwide Emergency Alert Test for Oct. 4, 2023
https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20230803/fema-and-fcc-plan-nationwide-emergency-alert-test-oct-4-2023
What are the ingredients of Pfizer’s covid-19 vaccine?
https://www.technologyreview.com/2020/12/09/1013538/what-are-the-ingredients-of-pfizers-covid-19-vaccine/
Jim Bakker Is Now Using His End Times Broadcast to Warn About Zombies
https://www.rightwingwatch.org/post/jim-bakker-is-now-using-his-end-times-broadcast-to-warn-about-zombies/
Chromosome 1p36 deletion syndrome
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/medgen/334629
Zombie Apocalypse: Can the Undead Teach the Living How to Survive an Emergency?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4612174/
Pfizer vaccine does not contain graphene oxide
https://apnews.com/article/fact-checking-430816913228
If It Sounds Like a Quack...: A Journey to the Fringes of American Medicine by Matthew Hongoltz-Hetling
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