Rumour is the most primitive way of spreading stories-by passing them on from mouth to mouth. But civilized countries in normal times have better sources of news than rumour. They have radio, television, and newspapers. In times of stress and confusion, however, rumour emerges and becomes rife. At such times different kinds of news are in competition: the press, television, and radio versus the grapevine.Especially do rumours spread when war requires censorship on many important matters? The customary news sources no longer give out enough information. Since the people cannot learn through legitimate channels all that they are anxious to learn, they pick up 'news' wherever they can and when this happens rumour thrives.Rumours are often repeated even by those who do not believe the tales. There is a fascination about them. The reason is that the cleverly designed rumour gives expression to something deep in the hearts of the victims- the fears. suspicions, forbidden hopes, or daydreams which they hesitate to voice directly. pessimistic rumours about defeat and disasters show that the people who repeat them are worried and anxious. Optimistic rumours about record production or peace soon coming paint to complacency or confidence- and often to overconfidence.