Fact Check: The Earth is flat

The Claim: "The Earth is flat"

The assertion that "the Earth is flat" has gained traction among certain groups, particularly in the context of conspiracy theories and skepticism towards established scientific consensus. This claim contradicts centuries of scientific evidence and observation that support the understanding of Earth as an oblate spheroid. This article will explore the available information regarding this claim, examining both supporting and opposing viewpoints.

What We Know

1. Historical Context: The idea of a flat Earth was more prevalent in ancient civilizations, but empirical observations, such as those made by explorers and astronomers, have demonstrated that the Earth is round. For instance, sailors were able to navigate the globe based on the spherical nature of Earth, as noted by NASA experts who reference historical maritime navigation as evidence of Earth's roundness 2.

2. Scientific Consensus: The scientific community overwhelmingly supports the view that the Earth is a sphere. This is based on various forms of evidence, including satellite imagery, the phenomenon of gravity, and the way ships disappear hull-first over the horizon 78.

3. Flat Earth Beliefs: Despite the scientific consensus, some individuals continue to advocate for flat Earth theories. Research indicates that these beliefs are often intertwined with broader conspiracy theories and a distrust of scientific authority 64.

4. Cultural Resurgence: The flat Earth theory has seen a resurgence in recent years, particularly through social media platforms. This revival is often characterized by a rejection of scientific evidence and a preference for anecdotal experiences 76.

Analysis

The claim that the Earth is flat is supported by a minority of sources that often lack rigorous scientific backing. For example, the article from Scientific American discusses the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to the belief in flat Earth theories, suggesting that these beliefs are more about identity and community than about empirical evidence 6.

Conversely, sources that support the spherical Earth, such as NASA and various scientific publications, provide extensive empirical evidence and historical context to debunk flat Earth claims. NASA's explanations of Earth's shape and the historical navigation practices of sailors serve as strong counterarguments to flat Earth assertions 28.

Additionally, the reliability of sources promoting flat Earth theories is often questionable. Many of these sources are not peer-reviewed and may be influenced by personal beliefs or agendas. For instance, the Library of Congress provides a list of references on flat Earth advocates, but this does not imply endorsement of their views 35.

Moreover, the methodology used by flat Earth proponents often involves selective use of evidence or misinterpretation of scientific principles. For example, claims about the curvature of the Earth are frequently challenged by flat Earth advocates using anecdotal evidence or misrepresentations of physics, which lack rigorous scientific validation 910.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that "the Earth is flat" is categorically false, as it contradicts a vast body of scientific evidence and consensus. Key evidence supporting this verdict includes historical navigation practices that rely on a spherical Earth, extensive satellite imagery, and the observable phenomena of gravity and horizon curvature.

However, it is important to recognize that the persistence of flat Earth beliefs often stems from psychological and sociological factors, including a distrust of scientific authority and a desire for community among believers. This context highlights the complexity of the issue, as it is not merely a matter of presenting facts but also addressing the underlying motivations of those who hold these beliefs.

While the evidence against the flat Earth claim is robust, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations in the available evidence. The discourse surrounding flat Earth theories is often influenced by personal beliefs and social dynamics, which can complicate the straightforward presentation of scientific facts.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information themselves and consider the sources and motivations behind various claims, particularly those that contradict established scientific understanding.

Sources

1. The Flat Earth Theory: is Evidence-Based Physiotherapy a ... (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8023606/)
2. How Do We Know the Earth Isn't Flat? We Asked a NASA Expert: Episode 53 (https://www.nasa.gov/earth/how-do-we-know-the-earth-isnt-flat-we-asked-a-nasa-expert-episode-53/)
3. The Flat Earth and its Advocates: A List of References (https://guides.loc.gov/flat-earth)
4. Why do some people believe the Earth is flat? - Pursuit (https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/why-do-some-people-believe-the-earth-is-flat)
5. Journal Articles - The Flat Earth and its Advocates: A List ... (https://guides.loc.gov/flat-earth/articles)
6. Flat Earthers: What They Believe and Why | Scientific American (https://www.scientificamerican.com/podcast/episode/flat-earthers-what-they-believe-and-why/)
7. Flat Earth | Theory, Model, Meaning, & Facts | Britannica (https://www.britannica.com/topic/flat-Earth)
8. Fact check roundup: Proof that the Earth is round - USA TODAY (https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/factcheck/2022/12/07/fact-check-roundup-what-scientists-say-flat-earth-evidence/10802218002/)
9. Seven Things That "Prove" The Earth Is Flat, According To ... - IFLScience (https://www.iflscience.com/seven-things-that-prove-the-earth-is-flat-according-to-flatearthers-49938)
10. Fighting flat-Earth theory (https://physicsworld.com/a/fighting-flat-earth-theory/)