Speaking of history, during Marcus Aurelius' reign, the Roman empire experienced The Plague of Antonine (now believed to be SmallPox).

Marcus Aurelius had to fight against rampant misinformation campaigns. Specifically one catalyzed by "Alexander of Abonoteichus".

Alexander of Abonoteichus was a cult leader before they were cool. He inherited wealth and power by spreading vile disinformation about the plague. He was also a narcissist and, per historical anecdotes, wore a wig.

(Sound like anyone we know?)

Marcus Aurelius' method of overcoming misinformation and fighting the plague were his policies:

- He put experts/doctors in charge.
- He forgave debt and taxed the upper class.
- He comforted the families of the dead.

The plague of Antonine lasted over a decade

and b/c of a lack of available medication, knowledge, killed 100s of thousands/millions.

But, most historians believe that Marcus Aurelius' policies helped save millions of Romans.

Aurelius isn't Biden, and Alexander of A isn't Trump.

But there are lessons to be learned here.