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, despite overwhelming scientific evidence supporting the Earth's spherical shape. This claim challenges centuries of established scientific understanding and is often associated with conspiracy theories. It is important to critically evaluate the evidence and sources surrounding this assertion.

What We Know

1. Historical Context: The belief in a flat Earth was common in ancient civilizations, but it has been scientifically disproven since at least the time of the Greeks and Egyptians, who used observations of celestial bodies to conclude that the Earth is round 25.

2. Scientific Consensus: The scientific community overwhelmingly supports the understanding that the Earth is an oblate spheroid. This conclusion is based on extensive evidence from various fields, including astronomy, physics, and geology 89.

3. Flat Earth Beliefs: Despite the scientific consensus, some individuals and groups continue to advocate for flat Earth theories. Research indicates that these beliefs often stem from distrust in scientific institutions and a desire for alternative explanations of reality 36.

4. Public Perception: The rise of social media and online platforms has facilitated the spread of flat Earth theories, allowing proponents to share their views widely and connect with like-minded individuals 610.

Analysis

The claim that the Earth is flat is primarily supported by anecdotal evidence and personal testimonies rather than empirical data. The following sources provide insights into the credibility of flat Earth claims and the scientific rebuttals:

• NASA's Position: NASA has published articles explaining the evidence supporting a spherical Earth, including observations from space and the physics of gravity, which would not function as they do if the Earth were flat 2. NASA's credibility is bolstered by its status as a leading space agency with a long history of scientific research.

• Scientific Critiques: Articles from reputable scientific publications criticize flat Earth theories, highlighting the lack of scientific basis and the reliance on conspiracy thinking 68. These critiques emphasize the importance of critical thinking and scientific literacy in evaluating such claims.

• Cultural Factors: A study from the University of Melbourne explores why some people continue to believe in flat Earth theories despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. It suggests that social and psychological factors play a significant role in the persistence of these beliefs 3. This source is credible as it is based on academic research, although it may reflect a bias towards understanding the psychology behind belief systems.

• Media Representation: The Guardian and other media outlets have reported on the flat Earth movement, often framing it as a fringe belief. However, such portrayals can sometimes oversimplify the motivations of individuals who subscribe to these theories 7. Media sources can be biased depending on their editorial stance, so it's essential to consider multiple perspectives.

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 historical observations, extensive scientific research, and the consensus of the scientific community, all of which affirm the spherical nature of the Earth.

However, it is important to acknowledge that beliefs in flat Earth theories often arise from social and psychological factors, including distrust in scientific institutions and a preference for alternative explanations. While the evidence against flat Earth claims is robust, the persistence of these beliefs highlights the complexities of human cognition and societal influences.

Limitations in the available evidence include the fact that much of the discourse surrounding flat Earth theories is influenced by anecdotal experiences and personal testimonies, which can skew perceptions of reality. Additionally, the motivations behind such beliefs can vary widely among individuals, complicating the understanding of why these theories continue to attract followers.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider the sources and evidence behind claims, especially those that challenge established scientific understanding.

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 | Science. 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