(Mis)information Revolutions

Abstract

This paper surveys the different ways in which 'misinformation' was utilised in usurpations in the Roman empire from 68/9 until the fourth century CE. The paper begins by outlining the geographical and technological context for the dissemination of (mis)information and argues that the slowness with which information was communicated created 'space' for misinformation to have the desired effects. It then examines different ways in which misinformation was used - such as to incite rebellion; as an ex post facto justification for rebellion or as means by which those who had picked the wrong side in a civil conflict may try to justify their actions.