22 Myths Many People Still Believe (Despite Being Proven Wrong)

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In an age where information is just a click away, it’s surprising how many misconceptions still hold sway in our collective minds.

These myths passed down through generations, continue to shape our understanding of the world in ways that are often far from accurate. We also created a video that we added at the end. Be sure to check it out.

A woman with long hair places her hand on a man's shoulder, while the man, with a serious expression, raises his hand towards her in a dismissive gesture. They are seated on a couch in a kitchen setting. — A woman with long hair places her hand on a man’s shoulder, while the man, with a serious expression, raises his hand towards her in a dismissive gesture. They are seated on a couch in a kitchen setting.

Let us know any that surprised you. Are there any myths we missed that people believe to be true, even though they have been proven false?

Table of Contents

1. Humans Only Use 10% Of Their Brains

The belief that humans only utilize 10% of their brains is a persistent myth. Scientific research, including brain imaging studies, has debunked this notion repeatedly.

Even when at rest, various regions of the brain remain active. The brain is an intricate organ, and nearly every part serves a function, from processing sensory inputs to regulating bodily functions.

2. Bulls Are Enraged by the Color Red

Contrary to popular belief, bulls are not angered by the color red. Bulls are actually color-blind to red. Their reaction is to the movement of the matador’s cape, not its color. This myth likely stems from the traditional use of red capes in bullfighting.

3. Napoleon Bonaparte Was Extremely Short

The notion that Napoleon Bonaparte was exceptionally short is a long-standing myth. Historical records indicate that Napoleon was around 5 feet 6 inches tall, which was average for his time. This misconception likely arose from a misinterpretation of French measurements.

4. Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice

The idea that lightning never strikes the same place twice is incorrect. Lightning can and does strike the same location multiple times, particularly in areas with high conductivity, such as tall buildings or mountains.

Lightning follows the path of least resistance, and if a spot provides a convenient path, it can be struck repeatedly.

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5. Goldfish Have a 3-Second Memory Span

The claim that goldfish have a mere 3-second memory span is a persistent myth. Research has shown that goldfish can remember information for much longer periods, some up to several months. They can learn and adapt to their environment, which wouldn’t be possible with such a short memory span.

6. The Great Wall of China Is Visible From Space

The belief that the Great Wall of China is visible from space with the naked eye is a misconception. The wall is relatively narrow and often blends in with its surroundings.

Astronauts in orbit can only see it with the help of powerful telescopic lenses. This myth likely originated as an exaggeration.

7. Sugar Causes Hyperactivity in Children

Many parents believe that sugar causes hyperactivity in children, leading to restrictions on sugary treats. However, numerous scientific studies have failed to establish a direct link between sugar consumption and increased hyperactivity in kids.

The excitement of special events may be the real cause of perceived hyperactivity, not the sugar itself.

8. Daddy Longlegs Are the Most Venomous Spiders

The myth that daddy longlegs are the most venomous spiders but lack the fangs to bite humans is false. Daddy longlegs, also known as harvestmen, are not even true spiders. They do not possess venom glands or fangs, making them harmless to humans.

But some clarification is needed. Cellar spiders are also called daddy longlegs. They do have venom that is harmless to humans.

9. The Tongue Map for Tasting Different Flavors

The idea that different regions of the tongue are responsible for specific tastes (e.g., sweet, salty, sour, bitter) is a widely held misconception. Scientific research has shown that taste receptors for all primary tastes are distributed across the entire tongue.

Taste perception is not limited to certain regions as previously believed.

10. Chameleons Change Color to Camouflage

While chameleons are known for their ability to change color, it’s not primarily for camouflage. They change color in response to various stimuli, including temperature, mood, communication, and social interactions.

Camouflage is just one reason behind their color-changing abilities but not the sole purpose.

The myth isn’t entirely false, just oversimplified.

11. The Five Senses Are the Only Way To Perceive the World

Many people believe that humans have only five senses—sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch. In reality, humans have multiple sensory systems, including proprioception (awareness of body position), thermoception (sensitivity to temperature), and nociception (pain perception).

These additional senses play crucial roles in how we interact with and perceive our environment.

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12. People Think Caffeine Gives You Energy

Many people believe that caffeine provides energy, but this isn’t entirely accurate. Caffeine works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, which reduces the sensation of tiredness and increases alertness.

While it can make you feel more energetic, it doesn’t directly supply energy to the body.

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13. Polygraph Tests Are Reliable for Detecting Lies

The belief that polygraph tests are scientifically reliable for detecting lies is a misconception. Polygraphs measure physiological responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, and skin conductivity, which can be influenced by stress or anxiety rather than deception.

Although some claim the polygraph works about 75% of the time, its accuracy and reliability are highly debated. The inventor initially believed in its utility, but many scientists have since criticized its effectiveness and reliability.

14. Cracking Your Knuckles Causes Arthritis

The belief that cracking your knuckles leads to arthritis is a common myth. Studies have shown that there is no direct link between knuckle cracking and arthritis. The sound is caused by the release of gas bubbles in the synovial fluid within the joints.

The phrase “blind as a bat” is misleading. Bats are not blind; they have eyes and can see. While their vision varies among species, many bats have excellent night vision. They rely on echolocation to navigate and hunt in the dark, but they are far from blind.

16. You Need to Wait 24 Hours Before Reporting a Missing Person

There is a widespread belief that you must wait 24 hours before reporting a missing person. This is not true. Authorities recommend reporting a missing person as soon as you realize they are missing, as immediate action can be crucial.

17. Shaving Hair Makes It Grow Back Thicker

Shaving does not change the thickness, color, or rate of hair growth. When hair grows back after shaving, it may feel coarser or look darker because it is cut at an angle, making it more noticeable, but the hair itself remains unchanged.

18. Humans Swallow Eight Spiders a Year While Sleeping

The idea that humans swallow eight spiders a year while sleeping is a myth. Spiders tend to avoid humans, and there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. The myth likely originated as a way to illustrate how easily misinformation can spread.

19. Carrots Improve Night Vision

The belief that eating carrots significantly improves night vision is an exaggeration. While carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is essential for eye health, they do not grant superhuman night vision. This myth was popularized during World War II by British propaganda.

20. Alcohol Warms You Up

Workout Tips for Beginners; Alcohol bottles — https://www.pexels.com/photo/assorted-wine-bottles-1283219/

Drinking alcohol may create a sensation of warmth because it causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow to the skin. However, this process can actually result in heat loss and lower core body temperature, making you more susceptible to hypothermia.

21. Touching a Baby Bird Will Cause Its Mother to Reject It

The belief that touching a baby bird will cause its mother to reject it is false. Most birds have a poor sense of smell and will not abandon their chicks if they have been handled by humans. It is generally safe to return a fallen chick to its nest.

22. Hair and Nails Continue to Grow After Death

The appearance that hair and nails continue to grow after death is an illusion. After death, the skin dehydrates and retracts, making hair and nails appear longer. In reality, growth ceases when the body dies.

Myth Busters

In an age where information is readily accessible, it’s surprising how many myths continue to shape our understanding of the world.

Misconceptions about our brains, caffeine, polygraphs, and lightning, among others, influence our perceptions in subtle yet significant ways. By debunking these enduring fallacies, we can cultivate a more informed and accurate view of the world around us.

Critical thinking and a healthy dose of skepticism are essential tools in separating fact and fiction. Stay curious, keep questioning, and let the truth guide you.

We also created this video of Myths That People Believe, Even Though They Are Wrong.