Flat-Eartherism is a theory that maintains that the Earth is flat, contrary to overwhelming scientific evidence that demonstrates its sphericity. Despite being a belief discredited by centuries of scientific observation and space exploration, flat-eartherism has seen a resurgence in recent decades, especially with the proliferation of the internet and social media. This article explores the history, core beliefs, and controversies surrounding flat earthism.
History of Flat Earthism
Ancient Origins
The idea that the Earth is flat has its roots in ancient civilizations. Cultures such as the Babylonians and ancient Egyptians conceived of the Earth as a flat disk. In ancient Greece, philosophers such as Thales and Anaximander also promoted the idea of ​​a flat Earth. However, this conception began to change over time.
Scientific revolution
The idea of ​​a spherical Earth was first proposed by the ancient Greeks. Pythagoras and, later, Aristotle, provided empirical evidence for the sphericity of the Earth. Ptolemy’s geocentric model, although incorrect in its concept of the universe, assumed a spherical Earth. During the Middle Ages, European scholars, influenced by the work of the Greeks and Arabs, accepted the sphericity of the Earth.
Christopher Columbus’ voyage in 1492 and subsequent explorations confirmed the sphericity of the Earth. The scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th centuries, with figures such as Copernicus, Galileo and Newton, consolidated the understanding of the Earth as a spherical planet orbiting the Sun.
Fundamental Beliefs of Flat Earthism
Flat Earth Model
Flat Earthers believe that the Earth is a flat disk with the Arctic in the center and Antarctica as an ice wall on the edge. According to this theory, the Sun and Moon are spheres that move in circles on the flat Earth. Stars are considered small, nearby objects, rather than distant suns in other galaxies.
Distrust in Science
Modern flat-earthering is characterized by a deep distrust of science and institutions. Flat Earthers often believe that the sphericity of the Earth is a conspiracy perpetuated by governments, scientists, and organizations like NASA. They allege that images of the Earth from space are fabrications and that space flights are montages.
Perceptual Evidence
Many flat earthers base their beliefs on everyday perceptual observations. They argue that the lack of visible curvature of the horizon and the perception that the Earth is flat from the surface are evidence of their theory. These arguments dismiss the scale and limitations of human perception in understanding global geography.
Controversies and Criticisms
Scientific Challenges
Flat Earthism has been widely refuted by the scientific community. The evidence for the Earth’s sphericity is abundant and varied, including photographs from space, observations of other planets, and the basic physics of motion and gravity. Commercial flights and satellite navigation also depend on accurately understanding the Earth as a sphere.
Impact on society
The resurgence of flat-earthering raises concerns about scientific literacy and the influence of misinformation. The proliferation of conspiracy theories on digital platforms can undermine trust in science and institutions. Additionally, flat-earthering is often associated with other conspiracy theories, creating a web of misinformation that can be difficult to dismantle.
Educational Answers
The educational response to flat-earthering has been varied. Some educators and scientists have chosen to directly confront these beliefs, using scientific evidence to refute them. Others argue that the best way to combat flat-earthering is to promote a robust science education from an early age, encouraging critical thinking and understanding of scientific methods.