Rumors, urban legends, and conspiracy theories the subject of sociological research with varying intensity since the middle of twentieth century (Neubauer 1999; Burgess 2006). They can be defined as the oldest form of mass communication and regardless of the social environment we live in rumours emerge anywhere. Rumours can spread of news, bring fame and glory, or to tarnish the reputation and even play an important role in international relations to cause wars and uprisings (Kapferer, 1990). In recent times, there has been a noticeable increase of rumours in our country and the social problems caused by them have been noticeable. The purpose of this course is to develop sociology of rumours, gossip and urban legends and to introduce this subject to the younger academics in this area also to introduce the current and historic literature.

In recent times there is a need for some key concepts and new theories in sociology to grasp and explain the recent rumors, urban legends and conspiracy theories that have been occurring. We need to apply key new social concepts and new social theories. In this course we aim to discuss the increasing widespread Rumor, Gossip and Urban Legends. To explain the problem concepts and theories of risk society, world risk society and culture of fear, uncertainties and the problem of erosion of trust.