10. The Russian Sleep Experiment (Myth and Reality)
The “Russian Sleep Experiment” is a widely circulated urban legend that describes a gruesome Soviet-era study in which prisoners were allegedly kept awake for extended periods using a sleep-inhibiting gas, leading to severe psychological and physical consequences. However, this narrative is a work of fiction, originating as a creepypasta—a genre of horror-themed internet stories. Experts and fact-checking organizations have debunked the tale, confirming that no such experiment ever took place. (scientificamerican.com)