Flat earthers think our understanding of space is a lie. They say planets, stars, and galaxies are part of a big conspiracy. They believe images of Earth from space and videos of astronauts are fake.
They think governments and institutions hide the truth. They say Earth is flat and motionless, surrounded by an impenetrable ice wall.
A surreal flat earth map, with a cartoonish, hand-drawn aesthetic. In the foreground, a simplified globe depicts a flat, disc-like landmass surrounded by an endless ocean. The continents are stylized and distorted, with exaggerated geographical features. In the middle ground, wispy clouds and celestial bodies float above the map, hinting at the illusion of a fake, enclosed space. The background is a hazy, dreamlike void, with subtle gradients and soft lighting that create a sense of mystery and uncertainty. The overall composition evokes a sense of whimsy and defiance, reflecting the flat earther’s beliefs about the nature of the world and the cosmos.
This belief has grown online. Communities share videos and experiments to “prove” space is fake. They challenge mainstream science, questioning gravity, orbits, and celestial events.
While many find these ideas puzzling, the movement shows a growing skepticism toward official narratives.
Key Takeaways
- Flat earthers reject accepted astronomy, claiming space is a fabricated narrative.
- Conspiracy theories about space missions and NASA dominate their core arguments.
- The movement uses social media to share alternative explanations for natural phenomena.
- Understanding these views helps explain modern distrust in scientific authority.
- Debates over space being fake highlight divides between science and public belief systems.
The Rise of Modern Flat Earth Theory
Long ago, people wondered about Earth’s shape. Now, the flat earth theory is back, showing how some reject science. This flat earth revival mixes old ideas with doubts about today’s institutions.
From Ancient Beliefs to Internet Revival
Old flat earth ideas were forgotten with science’s progress. But Samuel Rowbotham brought them back in the 1800s. His book, Zetetic Astronomy, said Earth is flat. This idea is now popular online, thanks to social media.
“The internet lets us question everything authorities say,” argues a movement member, highlighting how forums turned niche theories into mainstream debates.
Key Figures in the Contemporary Flat Earth Movement
- Samuel Rowbotham: 19th-century author whose work inspired later generations.
- Mark Sargent: Revived the Flat Earth Society in 2004, creating spaces for believers.
- Eric Dubay: Popularized the theory through YouTube talks and books, drawing thousands to the cause.
The Role of Social Media in Spreading Flat Earth Ideas
YouTube and Facebook helped these ideas spread. Algorithms suggest similar content, creating echo chambers. Groups share videos and challenge science, making the flat earth revival a big deal. This shows a growing distrust in scientific facts, part of the anti-science movement.
Understanding the Flat Earth Model
Flat earthers believe in a disc earth with the North Pole at the center. They think Antarctica is an ice wall around the edge. This flat earth model offers a different view of the world, explaining things like daylight and gravity in its own way.
“The sun acts like a spotlight, moving in circles above the disc to create day and night,” say proponents. They believe the sun and moon are smaller, closer objects. These objects light up areas as they move, making shadows act differently than they do on a round Earth.
Key parts of the disc earth system include:
- A flat plane with gravity pulling toward the center
- Seasons caused by the sun’s varying distance from Earth’s surface
- Time zones explained by the sun’s gradual illumination of different areas
| Phenomenon | Flat Earth Explanation | Mainstream Science |
|---|---|---|
| Horizon curvature | Hidden by atmospheric effects | Visible from high altitudes |
| Eclipses | Geometric shadow alignments | Lunar phases blocking sunlight |
Proponents say their alternative worldview fits with what they see in the world. They look at weather and flight paths in a new way, making their system work for them.
Why Flat Earthers Reject Space as We Know It
Flat Earthers question accepted science with core theories and doubt in institutions. They base their views on ancient ideas, updated for today.
The “Firmament” or Dome Theory
The firmament theory says Earth is covered by a solid dome, as Genesis mentions. Followers believe this dome holds up the sky, opposing the idea of orbiting bodies.
NASA Conspiracy Claims
Many flat earthers think there’s aNASA conspiracyto keep Earth’s shape secret. They point out fake images, pretend space stations, and faked missions.
“All space footage is CGI,” argues one adherent, pointing to alleged pixelation in videos.
Moon Landing Hoax
The 1969 moon landing is seen as amoon landing hoax. Critics say there are no stars in photos or that flags wave in a vacuum. These points make them doubt official stories.
Stars and Planets as “Luminaries”
Stars are viewed as lights on the firmament, not far-off objects. Thisfirmament theory sees celestial bodies as part of Earth’s sky, not distant galaxies.
Knowing these key points shows how old ideas mix with today’s skepticism of science and media.
The Antarctic Ice Wall: The Edge of Their World
Flat Earth theory says the antarctic ice wall is around their world. They think it’s a 200-foot ice barrier that keeps the world in. It’s seen as a secret kept by world leaders.https://www.youtube.com/embed/JsETzrRr3is
The UN Flag Conspiracy
Flat earthers look at the UN flag as proof. They say its map shows Earth is round. But, they think the UN hides the edge of the world with olive branches.
“The UN’s logo isn’t decoration—it’s a map. They know the truth but hide it.”
Why No One Can ‘Fall Off’
- Ice Wall Barrier: The 150-foot-tall wall blocks travel beyond the disc’s edge.
- Gravity Theory: Some propose magnetic forces keep people anchored to Earth’s surface.
- “Endless Plane” Myth: They claim oceans curve inward, preventing water—and people—from escaping.
The antarctic ice wall is key to their world view. It shows how symbols like the UN flag are important to them. These beliefs create a unique reality.
Flat Earthers and Their View of Gravity
Flat Earthers reject traditional gravity, calling it gravity denial. They suggest buoyancy theory and density theory to explain how things move. This creates a different physics system, challenging traditional science.
Buoyancy theory says objects move based on their density. A rock falls because it’s denser than air, while helium rises. Density theory adds that mass affects this, making heavier items sink faster. These ideas replace gravity’s pull.
Universal Acceleration is another key idea. Supporters say Earth accelerates upward at 9.8 m/s², acting like gravity. They believe this motion keeps people grounded without gravity. Critics say it’s unproven, but flat earthers see it as fitting their model.
These theories show gravity denial is more than skepticism—it’s a new system. By combining buoyancy, density, and acceleration, they create a framework for a flat Earth. This approach shows how their belief system has its own scientific logic, different from mainstream views.
Common “Evidence” Presented by Flat Earth Communities
Flat earthers often point to specific experiments and observations to back their claims. Let’s look at three key examples they use to argue for a flat Earth.
A high-contrast, documentary-style photograph of a scientific experiment setup, showcasing the “Bedford Experiment” – a classic “flat earth evidence” claimed by the flat earth community. The foreground features a precisely calibrated surveyor’s level, its crosshairs trained on a distant landmark. In the middle ground, a team of earnest researchers in lab coats scribble notes, scrutinizing the results. The background depicts a serene, flat landscape stretching to the horizon, hinting at the perceived lack of curvature. Dramatic lighting and a sense of scientific rigor convey the weight of the “evidence” presented by flat earth proponents.
The Bedford Level Experiment
In the 1800s, Samuel Rowbotham tried to prove Earth is flat using water level measurements along England’s Bedford River. Today, flat earthers do the Bedford Level Experiment again. They say water stays perfectly flat over long distances. They ignore scientific explanations about tidal effects and instrument error, saying their data proves Earth is flat.
Horizon Observations
| Flat Earth Claim | Scientific Explanation |
|---|---|
| Skylines visible at great distances | Atmospheric refraction bends light, extending visible ranges |
| Lighthouses stay visible beyond “curved” horizons | Light refraction and mirages create illusions |
Photograph Analysis and Claims
Flat earthers look closely at images for “proof” of fakery:
- Zooming in on horizon lines to show “sharpness”
- Pointing to “black bars” in space photos as editing
- Arguing that clouds shouldn’t exist on a round Earth
They share DIY tests, like laser-level grids across lakes, to “verify” flatness. While these methods seem simple, scientists say they ignore big physics principles like gravity and orbital mechanics.
The Psychology Behind Flat Earth Beliefs
Understanding flat earth beliefs goes beyond maps and science. Our minds seek meaning, and conspiracy theories fill the void. When we lose faith in governments or experts, these theories grow.
Distrust of Authority and Institutions
Anti-establishment views often begin with distrust. Many believe that places like NASA or schools hide the truth. This skepticism is common and reflects a broader distrust in leaders.
Studies show that feeling left out can lead people to seek different stories. Historical events like government cover-ups add to the suspicion.
- Historical events like government cover-ups fuel suspicion.
- Social media amplifies distrust by spreading claims rapidly.
The Appeal of Secret Knowledge
Knowing secrets makes you feel special. Conspiracy theories rely on exclusivity. Believers feel powerful because they know what others don’t.
As one follower said, “We see what others ignore.”
Community and Identity Formation
Being part of flat earth groups gives people a sense of belonging. Shared beliefs create strong connections. Members find online forums as safe places to discuss and support their views.
Adopting anti-establishment thinking changes how people see themselves. It becomes a part of their identity.
These patterns are not just about flat earth. They show how people seek connection and meaning. Understanding this helps us see why anti-establishment thinking persists, even without proof. Empathy comes from recognizing these beliefs as responses to real issues, not just fantasies.
How Scientists Respond to Flat Earth Claims
Scientists use scientific responses to tackle flat earth theories. They aim to be clear and respectful. Many debunk claims with real evidence. For example, watching ships disappear over the horizon shows Earth is round.
Simple tools like telescopes or smartphones can prove the globe model. This evidence is easy to see and understand.
A vast, dimly lit laboratory filled with scientific instruments and equipment. In the foreground, a group of scientists in lab coats and goggles intently studying data on computer screens and whiteboards, their expressions a mix of concentration and skepticism. In the middle ground, shelves of books and scientific journals, along with 3D models and diagrams of the Earth and solar system. In the background, a large window overlooking a starry night sky, hinting at the vastness of the cosmos. The scene is bathed in a soft, warm glow, conveying a sense of intellectual rigor and the pursuit of truth.
- Measuring star positions at different latitudes
- Using GPS technology to track travel distances
- Recreating historical experiments like Eratosthenes’ Earth circumference calculation
Educators teach critical thinking through educational approaches. They don’t just correct myths. They show how science works: testing, peer review, and adapting to new data.
Physicist Brian Cox says, “Curiosity drives progress.” He believes skepticism should lead to inquiry, not division. Workshops and online forums like NASA’s “Ask a Scientist” invite questions. They make complex ideas easy to grasp.
“The goal isn’t to win arguments—it’s to share tools for understanding.” – Science communicator Dr. Cara Santa Maria
Researchers face challenges like the “backfire effect.” Counter-evidence can make people cling to their views even more. To overcome this, educators focus on shared goals like safety and problem-solving.
By making science relatable, they aim to build trust. This approach avoids confrontation and promotes understanding.
Living in a Flat Earth Community: Personal Stories
Joining the flat earth community changes daily life. It reshapes relationships and routines. Here’s how belief in a flat world impacts real people:
Family Relationships
Many families face tension or unity. “My spouse and I debate constantly,” shared one member. Others find support:
“My kids and I watch debates together—it’s our bonding time now.”
Trust and love can deepen or fracture, depending on how families adapt.
Online Connections
- Private forums let members share doubts and triumphs
- YouTube channels and Discord servers foster daily interactions
- “Social dynamics” here build solidarity through shared skepticism
These spaces turn strangers into allies, offering validation absent in offline life.
Conventions and Gatherings
Annual flat earth conventions like the Flat Earth International Conference draw hundreds. Attendees describe these events as:
- Safe spaces to discuss theories openly
- Opportunities to meet researchers and speakers
- Platforms for hands-on experiments like horizon checks
These events highlight how the community thrives through shared experiences. They blend education with social bonding. Every attendee leaves with new perspectives—and often, new friends.
Conclusion: Understanding Alternative Worldviews in Modern Society
Looking into flat Earth theories shows us how different worldviews shape our beliefs today. Science proves Earth is round, but the flat Earth movement shows us deeper questions about knowledge. Online spaces let these ideas grow, alongside the mainstream views.
Beliefs often start from doubting authority and wanting secret knowledge. Flat Earthers use videos and events to find meaning, just like many other groups. This shows our need for belonging, even when facts disagree with what we believe.
Epistemology teaches us that knowledge comes from trust and context. It’s not about agreeing with all beliefs, but being curious. Talking about different views helps us think critically, showing that all beliefs are based on trust, evidence, and social bonds.
With information spreading fast, we must balance doubt with understanding. Being open to different ideas helps us connect without losing scientific truth. This helps us understand how we find truth in a world full of information.
FAQ
What do flat earthers believe about space?
Flat earthers think space is made up and the Earth is flat. They believe it’s a disc surrounded by ice. They see planets and stars as close objects, not far away.
How did the flat earth movement gain popularity in recent years?
Social media helped flat earthers share their ideas. YouTube and Facebook let them connect and spread their views. People like Mark Sargent and Eric Dubay also helped bring back interest in flat earth theories.
What is the “firmament” theory flat earthers often mention?
The “firmament” is a solid dome around the Earth in flat earth beliefs. Many link it to religious texts, seeing it as part of their world view.
How do flat earthers explain gravity?
Flat earthers don’t accept Newton’s gravity. They suggest gravity is due to density and buoyancy. They believe the Earth is always moving up, making gravity feel like it’s pulling us down.
What empirical evidence do flat earthers claim supports their views?
Flat earthers point to experiments like the Bedford Level Experiment. They also mention oddities in photos from high up. They use tools like spirit levels and lasers to question science.
How do flat earthers form their communities?
Flat earthers meet online to share ideas and experiences. These communities offer support and a sense of belonging, helping them feel part of a group.
What are some common critiques from scientists about flat earth claims?
Scientists debunk flat earth claims with evidence. They show the Earth is curved by observing ships disappearing over the horizon. But, presenting evidence can sometimes make flat earthers believe even more.
What is the relationship between flat earth beliefs and distrust of institutions?
Many flat earthers don’t trust governments and science. This distrust makes them question mainstream science. They feel like they have special knowledge that others don’t.
Are there gatherings for flat earthers?
Yes, flat earthers have conventions and gatherings. These events are places where they can share ideas and make friends. It’s a safe space to explore their alternative worldview.