What does the Flat Earth Society believe? The Flat Earth Society, also known as the Flat Earth Movement, is a group of individuals who reject the scientific consensus that the Earth is round. Instead, they adhere to the belief that the Earth is flat, with the sky being a dome that encloses the flat surface. This controversial theory has been dismissed by mainstream science for centuries, yet it continues to attract a small but dedicated following. In this article, we will explore the beliefs, origins, and impact of the Flat Earth Society.
The Flat Earth Society’s belief system is rooted in the idea that the Earth is a flat disc, with a circular sky overhead. This contrasts with the widely accepted geocentric model, which posits that the Earth is round and revolves around the sun. The Flat Earth Movement argues that the Earth’s shape can be proven through various methods, including the observation of ships’ disappearances at the horizon, the behavior of the sun and stars, and the way shadows fall during solar and lunar eclipses.
One of the primary arguments put forth by Flat Earthers is the observation of ships’ disappearances at the horizon. They claim that if the Earth were round, ships would gradually sink below the horizon, but instead, they seem to vanish suddenly. However, this argument fails to account for the curvature of the Earth, which is a well-established scientific fact. Additionally, the Flat Earth Society often misinterprets or ignores other evidence that contradicts their beliefs, such as the consistent behavior of celestial bodies and the precise measurements of the Earth’s circumference.
Another belief held by Flat Earthers is that the sky is a dome, or firmament, that encloses the flat Earth. This concept is reminiscent of ancient cosmological models, such as those found in the Bible and other religious texts. Flat Earthers argue that the firmament is supported by pillars or mountains, and that the stars, sun, and moon are actually attached to it. They also believe that the firmament is capable of moving and changing, which explains the various weather patterns and celestial phenomena.
The origins of the Flat Earth Society can be traced back to the early 20th century, when various individuals began to promote the theory. However, the movement gained significant traction in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, largely due to the rise of the internet and social media. Online forums, YouTube channels, and podcasts have provided platforms for Flat Earthers to share their beliefs and find like-minded individuals. Some prominent figures in the Flat Earth Movement include Eric Dubay, who wrote the book “Flat Earth: The History, the Science, the Evidence,” and Mark Sargent, the creator of the popular YouTube channel “Flat Earth with Mark Sargent.”
Despite its growing popularity, the Flat Earth Society remains a fringe movement that is largely dismissed by the scientific community. Critics argue that the movement is based on a combination of misinformation, logical fallacies, and a resistance to accepting empirical evidence. The Flat Earth Movement has also faced criticism for promoting conspiracy theories and promoting anti-scientific views.
In conclusion, the Flat Earth Society believes that the Earth is flat, with a circular sky overhead, and that the scientific consensus on the Earth’s shape is incorrect. While the movement has gained a small following, it remains a controversial and often ridiculed belief system. As the world continues to advance in scientific knowledge, the Flat Earth Society’s beliefs are likely to remain on the fringes of mainstream thought.
