Fact Check: The Earth is flat

The Claim: "The Earth is flat"

Introduction

The assertion that "the Earth is flat" is a longstanding belief that contradicts established scientific understanding. Proponents of this theory argue against the spherical model of the Earth, claiming that various observations support their view. This article examines the claim, the evidence presented by both sides, and the reliability of the sources discussing this topic.

What We Know

1. Historical Context: The concept of a flat Earth was common in ancient civilizations, but it has been scientifically disproven through centuries of astronomical observations and physical evidence. The spherical nature of the Earth has been supported by various scientific disciplines, including astronomy and physics 59.

2. Scientific Consensus: The overwhelming majority of scientists agree that the Earth is an oblate spheroid. This conclusion is based on extensive evidence, including satellite imagery, the way ships disappear over the horizon, and the way the Earth casts a round shadow on the Moon during a lunar eclipse 28.

3. Flat Earth Beliefs: Despite the scientific consensus, some individuals and groups continue to advocate for flat Earth theories. Research indicates that these beliefs may stem from distrust in authority, a desire for community, or a rejection of mainstream science 36.

4. Public Perception: Media coverage and public discussions often highlight the flat Earth movement, sometimes framing it as a conspiracy theory. This has led to increased visibility for flat Earth proponents, despite their views being widely discredited 710.

Analysis

The claim that the Earth is flat lacks credible scientific support. The primary sources advocating for this belief often rely on anecdotal evidence or misinterpretations of scientific data. For instance, the article from USA Today discusses how claims made by flat Earth advocates are consistently debunked by scientific explanations regarding the motion of celestial bodies 8.

Source Evaluation

• NASA's Expert Commentary: The NASA article provides a scientific perspective on the shape of the Earth, citing historical observations and modern technology as evidence against flat Earth claims 2. NASA is a reputable source with a strong scientific foundation, making this information reliable.

• Pursuit's Analysis: The article from Pursuit explores the psychological and social factors that contribute to flat Earth beliefs, offering insights into why some people cling to these ideas despite overwhelming evidence 3. This source is credible as it comes from an academic institution, but it may carry a bias in framing flat Earth beliefs as irrational.

• Wikipedia Entry: The Wikipedia page on flat Earth provides a comprehensive overview of the topic, including historical context and scientific rebuttals. While Wikipedia can be a valuable starting point, it is essential to verify the information through primary sources due to potential biases in editing 5.

• Physics World: The article discussing the rise of flat Earth beliefs highlights the challenges faced by the scientific community in addressing these views. It emphasizes the need for effective communication of scientific principles 6. This source is credible, as it comes from a respected publication in the field of physics.

• Columbia Daily Tribune: This article questions the scientific basis of flat Earth claims but does not provide substantial evidence to support its assertions. The lack of rigorous scientific backing raises concerns about its reliability 10.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that "the Earth is flat" is false, as it contradicts extensive scientific evidence supporting the Earth's oblate spheroid shape. Key evidence includes satellite imagery, the behavior of ships on the horizon, and the round shadow cast by the Earth during lunar eclipses. The overwhelming consensus among scientists, based on centuries of research across various fields, further reinforces this conclusion.

However, it is important to recognize that beliefs in a flat Earth often stem from psychological and social factors, such as distrust in authority and a desire for community. While the scientific evidence against flat Earth claims is robust, the persistence of these beliefs highlights the complexities of human cognition and social dynamics.

Limitations in the available evidence include the potential for bias in the sources discussing flat Earth beliefs, as well as the challenge of addressing deeply held convictions that may not be swayed by scientific reasoning.

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 expert commentary is essential for forming well-informed opinions on such topics.

Sources

1. Filippo, M. (2021). The Flat Earth Theory: is Evidence-Based Physiotherapy a ... Retrieved from PMC
2. NASA. (2025). How Do We Know the Earth Isn't Flat? We Asked a NASA Expert. Retrieved from NASA
3. Pursuit. (2019). Why do some people believe the Earth is flat? Retrieved from Pursuit
4. Library of Congress. (n.d.). Journal Articles - The Flat Earth and its Advocates: A List. Retrieved from Library of Congress
5. Wikipedia. (2025). Flat Earth. Retrieved from Wikipedia
6. Brazil, R. (2020). Fighting flat-Earth theory. Retrieved from Physics World
7. Burnett, D. (2016). Why the Earth is actually 100% flat. Retrieved from The Guardian
8. USA TODAY. (2022). Fact check roundup: Proof that the Earth is round. Retrieved from USA TODAY
9. Britannica. (2025). Flat Earth | Theory, Model, Meaning, & Facts. Retrieved from Britannica
10. Columbia Daily Tribune. (2018). Scientific evidence for a flat Earth? Retrieved from Columbia Daily Tribune