We live in the information age, yet much knowledge struggles to make its way among the population. Science has made incredible progress in recent decades, bringing to light indisputable truths in the medical, climate, social and beyond fields. However, for every established fact, there are still a surprising number of people who refuse to believe it. Here are 10 scientific facts that, despite overwhelming evidence, still divide public opinion.
Cold, in fact, does not cause colds
How many times have you heard not to go out in winter so as not to catch a cold? It is a widespread belief that low temperatures cause this disease. In fact, there are many reasons why viruses like the common cold spread more easily in winter, but the temperature itself it's not one of them.
Mental health issues are real
While there is a wide range of mental health conditions, many people still prefer the “hard” approach of telling sufferers to simply recover from whatever condition they have. Science has also proven that psychosomatic problems are real facts, and connect physical and mental well-being, but some consider these problems to be fake.
Evolution is in the facts
No theory has EVER been proven more correct with so much evidence and facts, yet here we are. Many Internet users are amazed at how many refuse to accept that humans evolved from apes, who in turn evolved from other creatures.
Gender variance is natural
A series of factors can cause gender variance in different species, including humans. Some species can even change their gender at will! Despite scientific research and discussion, many people refuse to move away from traditional ideas of men being men and women being women, with no room for disagreement.
Intersex people exist
As with gender variance, many deny the existence of intersex humans, people born with a variety of both male and female characteristics. Millions of people around the world are intersex, although even many of them They do not know.
Homosexuality is not a choice
Among the established scientific facts, sexuality it is not typically a choice and homosexuality is certainly not a disease. In contrast, sexuality is largely already determined when a person is born. If anything it's the opposite. There are a given number of countries in the world (in 2024) where being gay would get you executed. There are homosexual people there who forcefully "choose" simply to "not be gay". I hope we understand the paradox.
Climate change is in the facts
Even in the face of an overwhelming mass of facts for almost two centuries, many people will always argue that climate change is all a fabrication. Furthermore, many of those who believe it is a real problem have been made to believe that it is because of individual actions rather than industry and large corporations.
The birth control pill does not ruin fertility
Although it may cause unpleasant side effects for some women, in fact the hormonal birth control pill does not damage fertility. Unfortunately, there are still many people who would rather risk an unwanted pregnancy than use preventative measures.
Corporal punishment is wrong
Many parents still believe that spanking their children is an effective way to teach them the difference between right and wrong. It's quite common to hear adults describe how their parents spanked them when they were young, and that it didn't hurt them at all.
No, guys. Even though literally every medical association, agency, civil and professional organization approves the body of studies done, there will still be people who passionately argue that corporal punishment is a great way to parent.
Oh, and finally: the frog jumps out even if the temperature gradually increases
Many still use the myth of a frog remaining in hot water until slowly boiled to death as an analogy for people remaining in gradually worse conditions until they are strong enough to free themselves. Let's talk about a little experiment from 1882. It's actually not true! The frog wouldn't stay in the pot: it would jump out as soon as the water started to get too hot. There is hope for us too. Perhaps.
Let's bring with us at least some facts: some certainty is needed
Science continues to make extraordinary progress, revealing facts that some struggle to accept. Whether we are talking about medicine, climate, society or anything else, it is undeniable that many beliefs die hard. But perhaps, with patience and dialogue, we will one day be able to bridge the gap between what science tells us and what people want to believe.
Until then, all that remains is to continue spreading the facts, in the hope that sooner or later they will prevail over prejudices.
