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Misinformation During a Pandemic

Author

Listed:
  • Bursztyn, Leonardo

    (University of Chicago and NBER)

  • Rao, Aakaash

    (Harvard University)

  • Roth, Christopher

    (University of Warwick, CAGE Warwick, CESifo, CEPR, briq)

  • Yanagizawa-Drott, David

    (University of Zurich and CEPR)

Abstract

We study the effects of COVID-19 coverage early in the pandemic by the two most popular cable news shows in the US, both on Fox News, on health outcomes. We document large differences in content between the shows and in cautious behavior among viewers. Through both a selection-on-observables strategy and a novel instrumental variable approach, we find that areas with greater exposure to the show downplaying the threat of COVID-19 experienced a greater number of cases and deaths. We assess magnitudes through an epidemiological model highlighting the role of externalities and provide evidence that misinformation is a key underlying mechanism.

Suggested Citation

  • Bursztyn, Leonardo & Rao, Aakaash & Roth, Christopher & Yanagizawa-Drott, David, 2020. "Misinformation During a Pandemic," CAGE Online Working Paper Series 481, Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy (CAGE).
    • Handle: RePEc:cge:wacage:481
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Media; Health; Coronavirus JEL Classification: D1; I31; Z13;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D1 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior
    • I31 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - General Welfare, Well-Being
    • Z13 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - Economic Sociology; Economic Anthropology; Language; Social and Economic Stratification

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