Chapter 1: The Alarming Rise of Threats

In a personal experience at the age of 19, I found myself in a precarious situation after a delivery van sideswiped my car. Initially believing it to be an accident, I was stunned when the driver confronted me, expressing animosity based on my license plate and asserting, “We don’t like your kind here,” before speeding away. This shocking incident serves as a reflection of the broader, unsettling reality of threats and violence that many face today.

Amidst the ongoing pandemic, there exists a troubling wave of misinformation regarding COVID-19. Various unfounded beliefs, including the notion that the virus is a hoax or that vaccines are harmful, circulate widely under the guise of “just asking questions.” This atmosphere has led to hostility directed at the scientific community. According to a survey conducted by the esteemed journal Nature, which included 321 scientists who have engaged with the media about COVID-19, the results are startling. These individuals are merely doing their jobs, relying on data and evidence to communicate factual information, yet they are targeted by those who cling to delusions.

In September 2020, infectious disease specialist Krutika Kuppalli, who had recently started a new role at the Medical University of South Carolina, received a chilling death threat at her home. Following high-profile interviews and testimony before a congressional committee, she became the target of extensive online harassment. The escalation to a direct threat left her feeling anxious and unsettled. Despite reporting the incident to law enforcement, the harassment persisted, with police suggesting she consider obtaining a firearm for her protection.

The survey results reveal a sobering reality: 15% of scientists reported receiving death threats. Notably, Anthony Fauci, a prominent figure in public health discussions, faces credible threats that have necessitated personal security measures. It’s crucial to recognize that these individuals are not politicians sharing opinions; they are simply providing the best evidence-based guidance available. The adversaries they face seem to be fighting against reality itself.

In the first video, "What to Do When You Receive a Death Threat," experts share insights on managing threats effectively, emphasizing the importance of safety and appropriate responses in such situations.

Chapter 2: Global Patterns of Intimidation

The phenomenon of threats against scientists is not confined to the United States. In the UK, chief scientific adviser Chris Whitty faced physical assault on the street, mirroring experiences shared by researchers addressing contentious subjects like climate change and gun violence. In Australia, epidemiologist Gideon Meyerowitz-Katz has encountered a surge of death threats tied to his discussions on vaccines and controversial treatments like ivermectin.

The hostility surrounding ivermectin has surprised many, as Meyerowitz-Katz noted that he received more threats related to this topic than any other. Similarly, Andrew Hill from the University of Liverpool faced severe backlash after retracting a meta-analysis on ivermectin, which included threats of violence and disturbing imagery.

In Brazil, science communicator Natalia Pasternak has also experienced increased online attacks when discussing unverified COVID-19 treatments promoted by authorities. The response from researchers often varies; some choose to secure their social media profiles, while others opt to withdraw entirely.

The second video, "OPSIG Webinar: When is a death threat, a real threat?" discusses the nuances of distinguishing real threats from those that are more benign, providing essential guidance for professionals in high-risk environments.

Chapter 3: Understanding the Psychology Behind Threats

The motivation behind such aggressive behavior can be traced back to psychological needs. Many individuals feel compelled to believe in extraordinary ideas, often perceiving themselves as possessing unique insights that others overlook. This sense of being part of a select group fuels their conviction and justifies aggressive actions against perceived adversaries.

Research indicates that individuals who embrace conspiracy theories often do so to satisfy a need for uniqueness. A study highlighted in 2017 underscored that this desire correlates with a tendency to believe in conspiracy narratives. Those who feel they possess exclusive knowledge are more likely to engage in conspiratorial thinking and, by extension, hostile behavior toward those who present conflicting information.

In one instance, a conspiracy theorist reached out to me, asserting that mainstream media was under the control of unseen forces. When I questioned the validity of his claims, he evaded the inquiry, illustrating how such beliefs can fortify an individual’s sense of importance and relevance.

In conclusion, the rise of threats against scientists and public health officials during the pandemic underscores a troubling trend. As misinformation spreads, it fuels hostility that can lead to real-world consequences. Addressing this issue requires not only understanding the psychological dynamics at play but also implementing supportive measures for those on the front lines of science and public health.