Introduction (~ one page). Provide a basic description of the falsehood – whether a myth, rumor or conspiracy theory – that is serving as the subject of the brief. Identify its contemporary relevance to ongoing political, scientific, or health matters and discuss its significance (or potential significance) – e.g. what societal impact has resulted/might result from widespread belief in the claim.
Background and history (~ two pages). Where and when did the falsehood originate? Who were the actors most instrumental in the origination of the falsehood? What was the broader context that led to the emergence of the falsehood (e.g., COVID pandemic, presidential campaign)? Was the falsehood the result of an intentional act or the consequence of a misstatement, retracted news story, or normal political spin that spiraled out of control?
Circulation and acceptance (~ two pages). How quickly and deeply did the falsehood spread, and how widespread is belief in the falsehood? Among which groups did the falsehood find the largest and most accepting audience? To what extent does the spread of the falsehood match with existing explanations for how misinformation spreads within social systems? Based on your research, does belief in the falsehood appear to be growing, leveling off, or declining? Why, in your view, has the falsehood been accepted by so many (or, in other cases, so few) people?