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31 Myths About Science and Technology Perpetuated by TV and Movies

The article titled "31 Myths About Science and Technology That Are Perpetuated by the Media" from Yahoo Entertainment delves into a comprehensive list of misconceptions and myths that have been propagated through various media outlets. These myths span a wide range of topics from health and biology to technology and space exploration. The article aims to debunk these myths by providing factual information and scientific explanations, thereby enhancing public understanding and dispelling common misunderstandings.

The first myth addressed is the notion that humans only use 10% of their brains. This is a widely circulated myth that has been debunked by neuroscientists who explain that we use virtually all of our brain. Functional MRI scans show activity across the entire brain, even during simple tasks. The myth likely originated from early studies on brain damage and the misunderstanding that if a person could function after losing part of their brain, the unused part must not be necessary.

Another common myth is that vaccines cause autism. This myth stems from a now-discredited study by Andrew Wakefield, which suggested a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. Subsequent large-scale studies have found no such link, and the original study was retracted due to ethical violations and falsified data. The persistence of this myth has led to decreased vaccination rates and increased outbreaks of preventable diseases.

The article also tackles the myth that sugar causes hyperactivity in children. Numerous studies have shown that sugar does not affect children's behavior any more than a placebo. The perception of hyperactivity may be due to the excitement of events like birthday parties, where sugar consumption is high, rather than the sugar itself.

In the realm of technology, one myth is that 5G technology is harmful to human health. The article explains that extensive research has been conducted on 5G and other radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, and no adverse health effects have been consistently demonstrated at the levels used by 5G networks. The World Health Organization and other health agencies have stated that 5G is safe.

Another technology-related myth is that electric cars are not environmentally friendly. While it is true that the production of electric vehicles can have a higher environmental impact than traditional cars, the overall lifecycle emissions of electric cars are significantly lower, especially when powered by renewable energy sources. The myth often overlooks the long-term benefits of reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

The article also addresses myths about space and astronomy. One such myth is that the Great Wall of China is the only man-made structure visible from space. In reality, the Great Wall is not visible to the naked eye from low Earth orbit, and other man-made structures like cities and highways are more easily seen. This myth likely originated from a misinterpretation of early astronaut comments.

Another space-related myth is that there is no gravity in space. While the force of gravity decreases with distance from a mass, it never reaches zero. Astronauts in orbit experience microgravity, which is often mistakenly called zero gravity. This microgravity is due to the spacecraft and its occupants falling freely around the Earth, creating a sensation of weightlessness.

In the field of biology, the article debunks the myth that sharks do not get cancer. While it is true that sharks have a lower incidence of cancer compared to humans, they are not immune to the disease. This myth has been used to promote shark cartilage supplements, which have no proven benefit in preventing or treating cancer.

Another biological myth is that humans evolved from chimpanzees. The correct understanding is that humans and chimpanzees share a common ancestor that lived millions of years ago. This myth often stems from a misunderstanding of evolutionary biology and the concept of common descent.

The article also addresses myths about the environment, such as the belief that plastic recycling is the solution to plastic pollution. While recycling is important, the article explains that the majority of plastic waste is not recycled and ends up in landfills or the ocean. Reducing plastic production and consumption is a more effective way to combat plastic pollution.

In the realm of health, the myth that cracking your knuckles causes arthritis is debunked. Studies have shown no link between knuckle-cracking and arthritis. The sound comes from gas bubbles collapsing in the synovial fluid within the joint, and while it may be annoying to others, it is harmless.

Another health-related myth is that you need to drink eight glasses of water a day. The article explains that hydration needs vary based on factors like climate, activity level, and individual physiology. While staying hydrated is important, the exact amount of water needed can differ greatly from person to person.

The article also tackles myths about technology and privacy, such as the belief that incognito mode makes you completely anonymous online. While incognito mode prevents your browsing history from being stored on your device, it does not hide your activity from internet service providers or websites. True anonymity requires more advanced tools like VPNs and Tor.

In the field of physics, the myth that cold weather can make you sick is debunked. While cold weather can exacerbate existing conditions like asthma, it does not cause the common cold. The common cold is caused by viruses, which are more easily spread in close quarters during the winter months.

Another physics-related myth is that dropping a penny from the top of the Empire State Building would be lethal. In reality, a penny's small size and shape cause it to reach terminal velocity quickly, resulting in a relatively low impact force that is unlikely to cause serious injury.

The article also addresses myths about food and nutrition, such as the belief that organic food is always healthier. While organic farming practices can be better for the environment, there is no conclusive evidence that organic food is nutritionally superior to conventionally grown food. The health benefits of food are more closely tied to its nutritional content and overall diet than its organic certification.

In the realm of psychology, the myth that people only use the left or right side of their brain is debunked. While certain functions may be more dominant in one hemisphere, both sides of the brain work together in most activities. The idea of being strictly left-brained or right-brained is an oversimplification of how the brain functions.

The article also tackles myths about history and culture, such as the belief that Vikings wore horned helmets. This myth likely originated from 19th-century art and opera costumes, but there is no archaeological evidence that Vikings wore horned helmets in battle.

In conclusion, the article from Yahoo Entertainment provides a thorough examination of 31 myths about science and technology that have been perpetuated by the media. By debunking these myths with factual information and scientific explanations, the article aims to enhance public understanding and promote a more accurate view of the world. The myths covered span a wide range of topics, from health and biology to technology and space exploration, highlighting the importance of critical thinking and fact-checking in the age of information overload.

Read the Full Yahoo Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/articles/31-myths-science-technology-perpetuated-000000867.html ]