Fact Check: The Earth is flat

The Claim: "The Earth is flat"

The assertion that "the Earth is flat" is a long-standing belief that contradicts centuries of scientific evidence supporting the Earth's spherical shape. Despite overwhelming empirical data, a segment of the population continues to advocate for this view, often citing various arguments and interpretations of observations. This article will explore the claim, the evidence surrounding it, and the context in which it exists.

What We Know

1. Historical Context: The notion of a flat Earth was common in ancient civilizations. However, by the time of the Greeks, evidence began to mount for a spherical Earth, including observations of ships disappearing hull-first over the horizon and the round shadow of Earth on the Moon during a lunar eclipse 68.

2. Scientific Consensus: The scientific community overwhelmingly supports the understanding that the Earth is an oblate spheroid. This conclusion is based on extensive evidence, including satellite imagery, gravitational measurements, and the physics of planetary formation 49.

3. Flat Earth Advocacy: Despite the scientific consensus, there are groups and individuals who promote flat Earth theories. They often argue that mainstream science is misleading or part of a larger conspiracy. This belief has gained traction in recent years, particularly through social media platforms 27.

4. Psychological and Sociological Factors: Research indicates that belief in flat Earth theories may be linked to broader anti-establishment sentiments and distrust in scientific authorities. Some experts suggest that these beliefs can be reinforced by community and identity among adherents 27.

Analysis

The claim that the Earth is flat is largely based on pseudoscientific arguments and anecdotal evidence. A critical examination of the sources reveals a mix of credible scientific rebuttals and biased interpretations.

• Scientific Sources: NASA and other scientific organizations provide extensive evidence supporting the spherical nature of Earth. For instance, NASA's explanations of how Earth appears from space and the physics behind its shape are grounded in empirical research 49. These sources are generally reliable, as they are backed by decades of scientific inquiry and peer-reviewed studies.

• Pseudoscientific Claims: Some flat Earth advocates present arguments that appear to challenge established science, often relying on selective interpretations of observations. For example, they might claim that the horizon always appears flat or that water surfaces are level, ignoring the scientific principles of gravity and curvature 10. Such claims often lack rigorous scientific methodology and are not supported by peer-reviewed research.

• Bias and Reliability: Sources like Wikipedia and Scientific American provide well-rounded perspectives but can be subject to biases based on their audience and editorial policies. Wikipedia entries are generally reliable but can be edited by anyone, which may introduce inaccuracies. Scientific American, while credible, may present information in a way that emphasizes the absurdity of flat Earth beliefs, potentially alienating those who hold these views 67.

• Conflicts of Interest: Some sources discussing flat Earth theories may have underlying agendas, such as promoting scientific literacy or debunking conspiracy theories. While these motivations can lead to valuable discourse, they may also color the presentation of information, making it essential to critically evaluate the intent behind the messaging.

What Additional Information Would Be Helpful

To further understand the flat Earth claim, additional information could include:

• A comprehensive review of the psychological profiles of flat Earth believers to understand their motivations and thought processes.
• A detailed analysis of the specific arguments made by flat Earth proponents, along with scientific rebuttals to each claim.
• Case studies of how flat Earth beliefs have spread through social media and their impact on public understanding of science.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that "the Earth is flat" is false, as it contradicts a vast body of scientific evidence demonstrating that the Earth is an oblate spheroid. Key evidence supporting this conclusion includes centuries of empirical observations, such as the round shadow of Earth during lunar eclipses and satellite imagery that clearly depicts the Earth's curvature. Furthermore, the scientific consensus is backed by rigorous research and peer-reviewed studies, which consistently affirm the spherical nature of our planet.

However, it is important to acknowledge that the persistence of flat Earth beliefs can be attributed to psychological and sociological factors, including distrust in scientific authorities and the appeal of community among adherents. While the evidence against flat Earth theories is robust, the motivations behind such beliefs are complex and warrant further exploration.

Limitations in the available evidence include the potential biases in sources that discuss flat Earth theories, as well as the challenges in addressing deeply held beliefs that may not be swayed by empirical data alone.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider the sources of claims, especially those that contradict established scientific understanding. Engaging with credible scientific literature and fostering open dialogue can help combat misinformation and promote a better understanding of our world.

Sources

1. The Flat Earth Theory: is Evidence-Based Physiotherapy a ... PMC
2. Why do some people believe the Earth is flat? - Pursuit University of Melbourne
3. The Flat Earth and its Advocates: A List of References Library of Congress
4. How Do We Know the Earth Isn't Flat? We Asked a NASA Expert NASA
5. Journal Articles - The Flat Earth and its Advocates: A List ... Library of Congress
6. Flat Earth Wikipedia
7. Flat Earthers: What They Believe and Why | Scientific American Scientific American
8. Flat Earth | Theory, Model, Meaning, & Facts | Britannica Britannica
9. Fact check roundup: Proof that the Earth is round - USA TODAY USA Today
10. Seven Things That "Prove" The Earth Is Flat, According To ... - IFLScience IFLScience