Could The Last of Us Happen?
Introduction
The Last of Us is a post-apocalyptic video game that has gained immense popularity since its release in 2013. The game is set in a world where a fungus called Cordyceps has infected humans, turning them into aggressive creatures known as the Infected. The game’s storyline follows the journey of Joel and Ellie as they try to survive in this dangerous world. The game’s realistic depiction of a post-apocalyptic world has raised the question of whether such a scenario is possible in real life. In this article, we will explore the possibility of The Last of Us happening in reality.
Cordyceps Fungus
In The Last of Us, the fungus Cordyceps is the cause of the apocalypse. The fungus infects ants and other insects, eventually taking over their brain and controlling their behaviour. The infected ants are then forced to climb to the top of plants or trees, where they die, and the fungus releases its spores, infecting other ants. This fungus is real, and there are many species of Cordyceps that infect different insects.
However, the idea that Cordyceps could infect humans is highly unlikely. Humans and insects have vastly different physiologies and behaviours, and there is no known species of Cordyceps that can infect humans. Therefore, the idea that Cordyceps could cause a post-apocalyptic scenario similar to The Last of Us is highly improbable.
Human behaviour during a crisis
In The Last of Us, the collapse of society leads to widespread panic and chaos. The game depicts humans as being willing to do whatever it takes to survive, including killing each other. While it is true that humans can exhibit aggressive behaviour during a crisis, it is unlikely that society would completely break down in the way depicted in The Last of Us.
During real-life disasters, people often come together to help each other. There are countless examples of people risking their lives to save others during natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes and wildfires. Therefore, while there may be some individuals who would behave in the same way as the characters in The Last of Us, it is unlikely that society as a whole would break down in the same manner.
Transmission of the infection
In The Last of Us, the infection is spread through bites or contact with bodily fluids of the Infected. While this mode of transmission is plausible, it is unlikely that an infection would spread as rapidly as it does in the game. The rapid spread of the infection is a plot device used in the game to create tension and urgency. In reality, it would take much longer for an infection to spread to the extent depicted in The Last of Us.
Furthermore, modern medicine and public health measures would be much more effective in containing the spread of an infection than they are in the game. Therefore, while an infection similar to the one in The Last of Us could theoretically occur, it is unlikely that it would become as widespread as the game depicts.
Conclusion
While The Last of Us is a compelling and entertaining video game, it is highly unlikely that a scenario similar to the game could occur in reality. The science behind the game’s premise is flawed, and the game’s depiction of human behaviour during a crisis is unrealistic. Therefore, while The Last of Us may be an enjoyable game, it is important to remember that it is a work of fiction and not a realistic portrayal of a post-apocalyptic world.
