‘Truths’ with a Pinch of Salt (pg 12) - 5 Charity and 5 Joy

It was reported that some individuals intentionally spread rumours during the recent haze and caused unnecessary anxiety. This incident highlighted the fact that the information we receive or come across is not always reliable. Hence, it is important that we think carefully before accepting what we read or are told to be true, especially when the source of the information is unknown or dubious.

(1)  Why do you think people resort to spreading rumours?

(2) Choose one of the rumours cited by Minister Yaacob Ibrahim in the article and discuss how 

      the spread of such rumour could have affected Singapore as a nation.