13 Popular Science Lies that Must Be Corrected
Science has been instrumental in shaping our understanding of the world around us, but along the way, several misconceptions and oversimplified ideas have become widely accepted. Some of these “facts” have become so ingrained in popular culture that it’s difficult to separate truth from myth.
Here are 13 popular science lies that need to be corrected to ensure we get a more accurate picture of reality.
1. We Only Use 10% of Our Brain
This myth has been perpetuated for decades, and it continues to be one of the most popular misconceptions. The truth is, we use virtually all parts of our brain, even when we’re at rest. Different regions of the brain are responsible for various functions, such as movement, sensory processing, memory, and emotional regulation. While not every neuron is firing at the same time, every part of the brain has a known function, and brain scans show activity in nearly all areas, even during simple tasks like reading or blinking. This myth likely originated from misinterpretations of early neurological research, but modern science has debunked it.
2. Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice
Another common myth is that lightning will never strike the same place twice. In reality, lightning can, and often does, strike the same location multiple times. Tall structures, like trees, buildings, and communication towers, are particularly prone to being struck by lightning multiple times. The Empire State Building, for example, is struck by lightning over 20 times per year. The myth likely stems from the idea that lightning is rare, but in truth, it is highly unpredictable, and certain locations are more likely to experience repeated strikes.
3. Humans Evolved from Apes
While this myth sounds like it’s based on a misunderstanding of evolution, it’s more about oversimplification. Humans did not evolve directly from modern apes (like chimpanzees or gorillas). Rather, humans and modern apes share a common ancestor that lived millions of years ago. Evolutionary biology shows that over time, different species evolved along separate paths from this shared ancestor. The misconception arises from the misleading interpretation of “common ancestor” in everyday language.
4. Evolution is Just a Theory
In science, the term “theory” means a well-substantiated explanation based on a body of evidence, not just a guess or hypothesis. Evolution is a scientific theory that explains how species change over time through natural selection and genetic variation. The evidence supporting evolution comes from multiple fields, including genetics, paleontology, and comparative anatomy. Saying evolution is “just a theory” misrepresents its scientific validity and undermines decades of research.
5. Cracking Your Knuckles Causes Arthritis
Many people believe that cracking your knuckles will lead to arthritis. However, studies have shown that knuckle cracking does not cause arthritis or joint damage. The popping sound you hear when cracking your knuckles is caused by gas bubbles bursting in the synovial fluid of the joint. While cracking your knuckles may not be harmful, it’s still a good idea to avoid excessive force or discomfort when doing so, as it may irritate the surrounding soft tissue.
6. Goldfish Have a 3-Second Memory Span
It’s widely believed that goldfish have an incredibly short memory span, often said to be just three seconds. However, this is false. Goldfish can actually remember things for months, and they are capable of learning and recalling simple tasks. Research has shown that goldfish can be trained to navigate mazes, respond to visual cues, and even recognize their owners. The myth likely originated from a misunderstanding of how goldfish process sensory information in comparison to humans.
7. Bats Are Blind
The idea that bats are blind is one of the most pervasive myths about these creatures. In reality, bats can see, but they primarily rely on echolocation to navigate and hunt, especially in the dark. Bats have functional eyes and can see in low-light conditions, but they use their advanced echolocation abilities to “see” through sound in total darkness. Bats are not blind, but their sensory system is far more complex and adapted to their nocturnal lifestyle.
8. Vaccines Cause Autism
This myth has been debunked time and time again, but it continues to spread due to misinformation and fear. The idea that vaccines cause autism was first popularized by a 1998 study that has since been thoroughly discredited and retracted. No credible scientific evidence supports the link between vaccines and autism. Vaccines are crucial for preventing deadly diseases and have been shown to be both safe and effective in protecting public health.
9. You Can See the Great Wall of China from Space
This is a widely held belief, but it’s not true. The Great Wall of China is not visible to the naked eye from space, at least not under normal circumstances. Astronauts have confirmed that the wall is difficult to see without a telescope, and its color and texture blend with the natural landscape. The myth likely spread because of the wall’s immense length, but visibility from space depends on factors like lighting, atmospheric conditions, and the observer’s location.
10. Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker
Another myth is that shaving causes hair to grow back thicker, darker, or faster. The truth is that shaving simply cuts the hair at the surface of the skin, and does not affect the hair follicle or the rate of growth. The perceived “thicker” hair growth is an illusion caused by the blunt edge left by shaving, which may make the hair appear coarser as it grows out. In reality, the texture and growth rate of hair are determined by genetics and hormonal factors, not shaving.
11. Sugar Makes Kids Hyperactive
Parents often believe that sugar causes children to become hyperactive, but research does not support this claim. While sugar can provide a quick burst of energy, it does not directly cause hyperactivity. In studies, children who were given sugary snacks did not exhibit greater hyperactivity than those who ate non-sugary alternatives. However, children may behave more erratically when they are in situations where they’re given sugary treats—like at parties—due to excitement and stimulation, not the sugar itself.
12. You Need to Wait an Hour After Eating Before Swimming
The myth that you need to wait at least an hour after eating before swimming is based on the idea that swimming on a full stomach can lead to cramps or drowning. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this. While it’s true that eating a large, heavy meal could make you feel sluggish or uncomfortable, moderate physical activity, including swimming, is perfectly safe after eating. The myth likely comes from old warnings meant to prevent overeating or from overprotective parenting.
13. The Moon Landing Was a Hoax
One of the most enduring conspiracy theories is that the Apollo moon landing in 1969 was faked. Despite overwhelming evidence—such as photos, videos, and the testimony of thousands of scientists and engineers—the idea that the moon landing was staged continues to circulate. Independent investigations have shown no credible evidence to support this claim, and technological advancements since the 1960s have confirmed the authenticity of the Apollo missions. The moon landing remains one of humanity’s greatest achievements, and there’s no legitimate reason to believe it was a hoax.