Flat Earth movement, Ludwik Fleck and the myth of Prometheus

Abstract

In this work, we aim to analyze the Flat Earth movement using the framework offered by the theory of knowledge of Ludwik Fleck (1896-1961). The Flat Earth movement is a social phenomenon that can be associated with the so-called “post-truth” issue. The belief that the Earth is flat and that the scientific knowledge historically constructed in this regard is wrong is apparently growing in Brazil and in the world. A reflection of this was the realization, at the end of 2019 in São Paulo, of the first Flat Earth National Convention. Based on the speeches given in the various lectures that took place during this event, this qualitative study sought to identify characteristic elements of this group's thinking. Through the analysis of the observation field notes, we identified a previous set of six characteristics of the Flat Earth supporters’ speech, detailed in the body of the work. Then, this material was analyzed based on the theoretical framework offered by Fleck’s epistemology. Specifically, the fleckian concepts of thought style, thought collective, intracollective and intercollective circulation of ideas, esoteric and exoteric circles, active and passive coupling, harmony of illusions and protoideas proved to be useful in the characterization and interpretation of the Flat Earth movement. At the end, we make some reflections that, in our view, should be the object of attention in the area of science/physics teaching in regard to this theme, in particular, the need to be aware of this social phenomenon, problematizing it. We argue that a critical teaching of science and the respect for points of view different from those scientifically accepted should not imply a devaluation of scientific thinking.