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The Power Of Whispers: A Theory Of Rumor, Communication, And Revolution

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  • Heng Chen
  • Yang K. Lu
  • Wing Suen

Abstract

We study how rumors mobilize individuals who take collective action. Rumors may or may not be informative, but they create public topics on which people can exchange their views. Individuals with diverse private information rationally evaluate the informativeness of rumors about regime strength. A rumor against the regime can coordinate a larger mass of attackers if individuals can discuss its veracity than if they cannot. Communication can be so effective that a rumor can have an even greater impact on mobilization than when the same story is fully believed by everybody. However, an extreme rumor can backfire and discourage mobilization.

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  • Heng Chen & Yang K. Lu & Wing Suen, 2016. "The Power Of Whispers: A Theory Of Rumor, Communication, And Revolution," International Economic Review, Department of Economics, University of Pennsylvania and Osaka University Institute of Social and Economic Research Association, vol. 57(1), pages 89-116, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:iecrev:v:57:y:2016:i:1:p:89-116
    DOI: 10.1111/iere.12149
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    Cited by:

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    3. Sangnier, Marc & Zylberberg, Yanos, 2017. "Protests and trust in the state: Evidence from African countries," Journal of Public Economics, Elsevier, vol. 152(C), pages 55-67.

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