Question

Coworkers in one office building noticed a foul odor outside and suspected it might be a terrorist plot using a biochemical weapon. Soon, a number of reporters covered the story and reports of foul odors were popping up everywhere. Despite the mayor and the sewer department stating that a line in the sewer had burst, workers were convinced of the possible attack. This phenomenon is better explained by mass __________.

Answer 1

Answer:

This phenomenon is better explained by mass hysteria

Explanation:

Mass hysteria is a phenomenon whereby false information rapidly permeates among many people in the society or environment as a result of suspicion, rumors and fears caused by environmental, political, or other types of unfortunate incidences. In many instances, whenever there is mass hysteria, there is also a collective illusion about threats that don’t actually exist. The term “mass hysteria”—associated with masses of people—is also known by other names such as group hysteria, collective hysteria, mass psychogenic illness, or collective obsessional behavior.

Answer 2

Answer:

Coworkers in one office building noticed a foul odor outside and suspected it might be a terrorist plot using a biochemical weapon. Soon, a number of reporters covered the story and reports of foul odors were popping up everywhere. Despite the mayor and the sewer department stating that a line in the sewer had burst, workers were convinced of the possible attack. This phenomenon is better explained by mass hysteria.

mass hysteria

noun Psychology.

a condition affecting a group of persons, characterized by excitement or anxiety, irrational behavior or beliefs, or inexplicable symptoms of illness.