In a world flooded with information, misconceptions often thrive alongside genuine facts, leading to a puzzling array of beliefs that refuse to fade away. Some of these myths are so astonishingly ridiculous that it’s high time we set the record straight. From the misconceived idea that the Earth is flat to the persistent but baseless belief that sugar fuels children’s hyperactivity, these myths not only misinform but also stand in the way of genuine understanding. In this enlightening journey, we’ll delve into 18 of the most absurd myths that urgently need debunking. Strap in, as we navigate the realm of facts and fiction, aiming to shed light on the truth behind these bewildering misconceptions.
The Earth is Flat
This myth contradicts centuries of scientific evidence, including photographs of the Earth from space, the way ships disappear over the horizon, and the shape of the Earth’s shadow during lunar eclipses. Believing the Earth is flat ignores overwhelming scientific consensus. Observations like ships disappearing bottom-first over the horizon and the Earth’s curved shadow on the moon during eclipses provide strong evidence for a spherical Earth. These phenomena wouldn’t occur on a flat planet. The International Space Station (ISS) continuously orbits the Earth, and its crew members regularly take photographs of the round planet from space, providing real-time evidence of Earth’s true shape.
Vaccines Cause Autism
This myth originated from a now-debunked study published in 1998 that had critical methodological flaws and was retracted. Numerous comprehensive studies involving millions of children have since found no link between vaccines and autism. Autism is a complex neurological condition with a genetic basis, not caused by vaccines. Blaming vaccines can lead to vaccine hesitancy, putting individuals and communities at risk of preventable diseases. Vaccines have been one of the most significant public health achievements, saving countless lives and preventing severe illnesses. Believing in a vaccine-autism link can lead to unnecessary vaccine avoidance.
Humans Only Use 10% of Their Brain
Brain imaging technologies like MRI and PET scans have shown that virtually every part of the brain is active at different times, and there are no unused or “dormant” areas. Evolutionarily, it wouldn’t make sense for humans to carry around such a large, energy-consuming organ if most of it were unused. Our brains are highly efficient and continuously engaged in various functions. The 10% myth has been popularized in movies and self-help books, but it lacks scientific credibility. Recognizing that we use our entire brain is crucial to appreciate the complexity of human cognition and behavior.
Bats are Blind
Bats are not blind; in fact, many bat species have excellent vision. However, they often rely on echolocation, emitting high-frequency sounds that bounce off objects to navigate and hunt in the dark. Echolocation is so effective that bats can catch tiny insects mid-flight in complete darkness, showcasing their impressive sensory abilities. The myth likely originated from the misconception that since bats are active at night, they must be blind. This oversimplification of their capabilities is far from the truth.
Goldfish Have a 3-Second Memory
Goldfish have a memory span much longer than three seconds. Studies have shown that they can remember things for months and even exhibit learned behaviors. Their memory capacity may not be as extensive as some other animals, but they are certainly not limited to a mere three seconds of memory. The myth likely stems from the misconception that goldfish have poor memory due to their simple and repetitive behaviors.
Napoleon Was Extremely Short
Napoleon Bonaparte was not exceptionally short. He was measured at around 5’6″, which was average height for men in his era. The myth may have arisen because Napoleon was often seen with his Imperial Guard, who were selected for their height and tended to be taller, making him appear shorter by comparison. Historical records and his personal physician’s notes confirm that he was of average height for his time.
Sugar Causes Hyperactivity in Children
Numerous scientific studies have failed to establish a link between sugar consumption and hyperactivity in children. Any observed “sugar rushes” are likely due to the excitement of special occasions rather than the sugar itself. The belief in this myth may stem from a combination of factors, including confirmation bias, where parents expect sugar to cause hyperactivity, leading them to perceive it that way. It’s essential to base dietary choices on scientific evidence rather than unsubstantiated beliefs to ensure children receive a balanced and healthy diet.
You Can Sweat Out Toxins
While sweating is an essential bodily function for regulating temperature, it primarily consists of water and salt. Sweating does not effectively remove toxins from the body. Toxins are primarily processed and eliminated by the liver and kidneys, not through sweat glands in the skin. The idea of “sweating out toxins” has been popularized in various detox and spa treatments, but there is no scientific basis for this claim.
Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker
Shaving has no impact on the thickness or rate of hair growth. Hair may appear thicker or coarser after shaving because the blunt ends are more noticeable than the naturally tapered ends. Hair growth is determined by genetics and hormonal factors, not by the act of shaving. This myth likely persists due to a misunderstanding of how hair works, leading people to believe that shaving can alter its texture or growth pattern.
You Can ‘Boost’ Your Metabolism with Certain Foods
While some foods can temporarily increase metabolic rate due to their thermogenic properties, the effect is relatively minor and short-lived. There are no “magic” foods that significantly boost metabolism for weight loss. Long-term metabolic rate is primarily influenced by genetics, age, muscle mass, and overall lifestyle factors like physical activity. Promoting this myth can lead to unrealistic expectations about weight loss and discourage individuals from adopting sustainable, healthy habits.
Cracking Your Knuckles Causes Arthritis
The act of cracking knuckles does not lead to arthritis. The sound comes from the release of gas bubbles in the synovial fluid within the joint, not from damaging the joint. Numerous studies have failed to establish a link between knuckle-cracking and arthritis development. This myth likely persists due to the unsettling noise that cracking knuckles can produce, leading to unfounded fears about joint health.
Daddy Longlegs are the Most Venomous Spiders
Daddy longlegs (harvestmen) are not true spiders, and they are not venomous. They lack venom glands and fangs, so they are incapable of delivering venomous bites. This myth likely originated from confusion between harvestmen and true spiders and the idea that they are venomous due to their appearance. In reality, daddy longlegs are harmless to humans and play beneficial roles in ecosystems by consuming small insects and decaying matter.
The Great Wall of China is Visible from Space
Contrary to popular belief, the Great Wall of China is not visible to the naked eye from space. It is narrow, and its colour blends in with the natural terrain. The myth likely began as an exaggeration and was perpetuated in popular culture. While it can be seen in some satellite images, it is not easily discernible without the aid of optical instruments.
Chameleons Change Color to Camouflage
While chameleons can change colour, their primary purpose is not camouflage but communication, temperature regulation, and mood signalling. Their colour changes are a result of the movement of pigmented cells called chromatophores under the skin, controlled by the chameleon’s nervous system. The myth that chameleons primarily change colour for camouflage purposes is a simplification of their complex and versatile colour-changing abilities.
Hair and Nails Continue to Grow After Death
Hair and nails do not continue to grow after death. What appears to be growth is actually the result of the body’s dehydration and retraction of skin, making hair and nails appear longer. The misconception likely arises from the observable changes in a deceased body’s appearance due to the drying and shrinking of tissues. In reality, hair and nail growth require living cells, and once an individual passes away, these structures no longer grow.
Einstein Failed Math in School
This myth is entirely untrue. Albert Einstein was a brilliant mathematician and physicist who excelled academically throughout his life. While he had some difficulties with traditional rote learning methods in his early education, his mathematical abilities were evident, and he went on to make groundbreaking contributions to theoretical physics. The myth likely originated from a misunderstanding of Einstein’s educational experiences, which were far from indicative of a lack of mathematical talent.
Swallowed Gum Stays in Your Stomach for 7 Years
Swallowed gum does not stay in your stomach for seven years or any extended period. Like other food items, it passes through the digestive system and is eventually excreted. The myth likely arose from a cautionary tale to discourage children from swallowing gum, but it is entirely inaccurate. While gum is not easily digested, it does not remain in the stomach for an extended duration, and the body eliminates it naturally.
Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice
Lightning can and does strike the same place multiple times. In fact, tall structures like skyscrapers and communication towers are often struck multiple times during a single storm. The myth likely stems from the misunderstanding that lightning seeks out new targets with each strike, but it is more a matter of probability and conductivity. Lightning is attracted to the highest, most conductive point, so places that meet these criteria are more likely to be struck repeatedly.
21 Things That Shout You’re “Lower Class” According To Men
Class wars creep up in all aspects of life, including dating. We take a look at the things that men believe are telltale signs that you are lower class.
21 Things That Shout You’re “Lower Class” According To Men
Boomer Zoomers vs. Millennial Meh: 10 Cars the Older Gen Loves but Millennials Just Can’t Stand
The change in the automotive industry has been incredible over the year. Baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 can’t get enough of the cars listed below, as muscle cars emerged in the 1960s, and new technologies appeared in the 1970s and 1980s. You can imagine why boomers genuinely appreciate these vehicles.
Boomer Zoomers vs. Millennial Meh: 10 Cars the Older Gen Loves but Millennials Just Can’t Stand
Across the Pond Disdain: 18 Horrendous American Habits Foreigners Just Can’t Stomach
There is a lot to love about America, from the bright lights of New York to the incredible breakfasts, but foreigners also dislike many things. We look at everything from poor public transport to an intimidating tip culture, sharing 18 things that America could be better at.
Across the Pond Disdain: 18 Horrendous American Habits Foreigners Just Can’t Stomach
Out with the Old: 18 Gen X Fads That Millennials and Gen Z Just Can’t Vibe With
While some old habits die hard, there are some things that Gen X need to eliminate as they are no longer relevant.
Out with the Old: 18 Gen X Fads That Millennials and Gen Z Just Can’t Vibe With
18 Unpleasant States You Might Want to Skip on Your Next Trip
When thinking of America, we don’t expect there to be boring or unpleasant places to visit. We see all the different states on the TV, and they show the best parts. However, there are some states you won’t want to visit, and you should brace yourselves if you ever happen to stumble into them.
18 Unpleasant States You Might Want to Skip on Your Next Trip
