rumor is the most primitive(原始的) way of spreading stories—by passing them on from mouth to mouth. but civilized(文明的) countries in normal times have better sources of news than rumor. they have radio, television, and newspaper.

　　in times of stress and confusion, however, rumor emerges and becomes widespread. rumors spread especially rapidly during wars when the customary news sources no longer give out enough information. since the people cannot learn through legitimate(合

　　法的) channels, rumor thrives(繁荣).ever those who do not believe them often repeat rumors. there is a fascination(魅力) about them. the reason is that the cleverly designed(设计好的) rumor gives expression to something deep in the hearts of the victims(牺牲者). pessimistic(悲观的) rumors about defeat and disasters show that the people who repeat them are worried and anxious. optimistic rumors about production record or peace bring about confidence---and often overconfidence.

　　emotion

　　showing feelings

　　what makes life worth living? there are many possible answers to this question such as “good health”,”a comfortable home”, “plenty of friends” or”long holidays”. but these things would not make life worth living, unless we were able to enjoy them. whether or not we can enjoy these things depends on the emotions.emotion is the word we use to describe feelings such as love, hatred(仇恨),joy, sorrow(悲痛), fear, anger, hope, gloom(忧郁的心情), etc. these feelings play an important part in our lives: they not only influence our happiness but also affect our health.