[pjc50]

There does seem to be a section of punditry and commentators, internet and traditional media, who are absolutely salivating for a big dramatic disaster. A lot of people seem to enjoy the thought of doom. It's as if everyone's joined a doomsday cult, like the Millenium.

[mercer]

As well as the opposite, the "it's just a flu" person, which honestly I've not given much thought before and am morbidly fascinated by.