The Surprising Normalcy of Flat Earthers on Netflix

In today's digital age, it's easy to dismiss certain groups as radicals or outcasts. However, a recent documentary on Netflix has sparked a conversation about the importance of respecting and understanding conspiracy theorists, including Flat Earthers.

Clark, the creator of the documentary, argues that we should be more respectful towards individuals who believe in flat earth theory. This approach is not without its challenges, as Pierre, a clinical professor at UCLA, explains that condescension and belittling people's beliefs only leads to further polarization.

Interestingly, research suggests that belief in conspiracy theories is far more common than many of us might think. In fact, studies have revealed that half of the US population believes in at least one political or medical conspiracy theory. Moreover, some research indicates that individuals who subscribe to conspiracy theories often seek cognitive closure, meaning they desire explanations for events when none are available.

So why do people get drawn to these beliefs? According to Joseph Pierre, M.D., psychologists are still trying to determine the underlying reasons behind this phenomenon. However, one possible explanation is teleologic thinking, which involves believing that hidden forces, purposes, and motives are behind certain events.

In the case of Flat Earthers, despite ample evidence suggesting that the planet is round, these individuals might be attracted to the idea of a flat earth due to their desire for cognitive closure. This raises important questions about how we approach and engage with these groups.

Ultimately, it's essential to recognize that conspiracy theorists, including Flat Earthers, are not necessarily 'others' or radicals. They are often ordinary people who seek answers and explanations for the world around them. By adopting a more respectful and understanding approach, we can foster greater empathy and reduce polarization.

Flat earthers netflix