Blame
Swiss documentary about three scientists who, during the coronavirus pandemic, must not only combat the virus but also a wave of misinformation and conspiracy theories that threaten to overshadow the truth.
Blame focuses on the destiny of three scientists. After having researched the origin of the SARS epidemic which broke out in China in 2003, they were unwittingly thrown into the spotlight during the COVID-19 crisis. Their studies showed that the coronavirus was transmitted to humans by bats. Despite in-depth proof, some political and media sources, notably within the Trump administration, chose to discredit their results, instead supporting the hypothesis of a leak from the virology laboratory in Wuhan.
With calm, factual clarity, Blame reveals how the deliberate fuelling and amplification of fears and feverish myths are driving our world out of balance. The film juxtaposes the slow, patient, and meticulous rhythm of scientific inquiry with the urgent, reactive, and often toxic pace of political and media discourse. It offers a compelling demonstration of how, in times of crisis, we tend to seek out loud, simplistic narratives – and scapegoats.
Tuesday 22 September, 19:30
Film & Talk: Blame
How do conspiracy theories emerge? On 22 September, in collaboration with Studium Generale, we’re hosting a special screening of Blame. In an introduction, Professor Kai Jonas will discuss the role of the media and politics in the spread of disinformation.