Fact Check: The Earth is flat

Fact-Check: "The Earth is flat"

What We Know

The claim that "the Earth is flat" is a scientifically discredited notion that has been thoroughly debunked over centuries of astronomical and geographical research. According to a 2019 article from the University of Melbourne, the belief in a flat Earth persists despite overwhelming scientific evidence supporting the Earth's spherical shape. Historical figures such as Eratosthenes, who calculated the Earth's circumference in 240 BC, demonstrated that the Earth is round based on the differing angles of sunlight at different locations. This foundational understanding has been built upon through centuries of scientific inquiry and observation.

Modern scientific consensus, as articulated by NASA, confirms that the Earth is an oblate spheroid. This means that while it is mostly spherical, it is slightly flattened at the poles and bulging at the equator. The concept of a flat Earth is not only outdated but also contradicted by observable phenomena, such as the way ships disappear hull-first over the horizon and the way the Earth casts a round shadow on the Moon during a lunar eclipse.

Analysis

The belief in a flat Earth can be attributed to various psychological and social factors, including confirmation bias, where individuals favor information that supports their pre-existing beliefs. This cognitive bias can lead to the propagation of misinformation, particularly in the age of social media, where sensationalist claims can gain traction quickly. The Pursuit article highlights that the flat Earth movement has gained popularity, particularly among younger demographics, despite being scientifically discredited.

The sources used in this analysis vary in reliability. The article from the University of Melbourne is grounded in academic research and presents a balanced view of the phenomenon, while the Wikipedia entry on Flat Earth provides a comprehensive overview of the historical context and scientific rebuttals. However, some sources, like The Guardian's commentary, may reflect a more opinionated stance rather than a purely factual one. Overall, the scientific community overwhelmingly supports the spherical model of the Earth, and the flat Earth theory lacks credible evidence.

Conclusion

The claim that "the Earth is flat" is False. It contradicts centuries of scientific evidence and understanding, including astronomical observations and geographical measurements. The persistence of this belief can be attributed to psychological factors such as confirmation bias and the influence of social media, but it does not hold up against rigorous scientific scrutiny.