#959 - Mick West
Mick West is a game programmer, writer, and debunker. Currently runs a few websites including and
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Episodes with Mick West
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Key Takeaways
The Flat Earth theory has attracted genuine believers alongside trolls.
This highlights the complexities of online belief systems and misinformation.
Photography and satellite imagery are commonly misinterpreted by flat earthers.
This illustrates the challenges in countering misinformation with factual data.
Flat Earth theories often draw from historical misunderstandings of science.
Understanding the roots of these theories helps address current misconceptions.
The Michelson-Morley experiment is critical in understanding light’s behavior.
It illustrates how scientific experiments can be misinterpreted by conspiracy theorists.
Confirmation bias plays a significant role in belief systems.
Understanding this can help address and discuss unfounded beliefs more effectively.
Watch the full episode of #959 - Mick West.
Episode Timestamps
Exploring the Flat Earth Theory and Its Believers
- The podcast discusses the rise and beliefs surrounding the Flat Earth theory.
- Conspiracy theories are examined, particularly in relation to the Flat Earth movement.
- Notable misconceptions about space imagery and satellite technology are addressed.
Exploring Flat Earth Theories and Scientific Misunderstandings
- Eric DeBay's theories recycle old conspiracies from the 1800s.
- The Michelson-Morley experiment's implications on light and ether are discussed.
- The rise of Flat Earth beliefs reflects deeper societal conspiracies and misunderstandings.
Debunking Flat Earth Theories and UFO Sightings
- Discussion highlights widespread belief in flat earth and UFO theories.
- Confirmation bias leads people to seek communities that validate their beliefs.
- Real scientific evidence is often overlooked in favor of conspiracy theories.
Exploring the Psychology Behind Flat Earth Beliefs
- Flat Earth theory shares similarities with other fringe ideologies like Scientology.
- The importance of questioning authority and scientific claims is highlighted.
- Young people are particularly susceptible to conspiracy theories due to rebellion against authority.
Exploring Beliefs in Bigfoot and UFOs: A Skeptical Lens
- Discussion revolves around the persistence of belief in Bigfoot and UFOs.
- Skepticism highlighted through analysis of photographic evidence and community dynamics.
- The impact of technology on the credibility of conspiracy theories is examined.
Exploring Conspiracy Theories and Artificial Reality Concepts
- Various conspiracy theories discussed include nuclear bombs and pre-planted explosives.
- The possibility of simulated realities and artificial intelligence advancements is explored.
- Popular conspiracy theories like the Mandela Effect are examined and debated.
Exploring Conspiracy Theories and Historical Government Actions
- Discussion on how conspiracy theories can lead to social isolation and obsession.
- Historical examples of government conspiracies like Operation Northwoods and Gulf of Tonkin.
- The importance of critical thinking in distinguishing between real and fabricated conspiracies.
Debating the Flat Earth Theory and Astronomical Observations
- The discussion critiques various flat earth arguments using astronomical observations.
- Key points include the visibility of constellations from different hemispheres.
- The importance of understanding gravity and celestial navigation is emphasized.
Debate on Flat Earth, Lyme Disease, and Government Conspiracies
- Discussion centers on Flat Earth theories and their absurdities.
- Lyme disease controversies highlight medical community misunderstandings.
- The impact of conspiracy theories on public perception and behavior.
Exploring the Nature of Hoaxes and Perception of Truth
- Discussion centers on historical hoaxes like the Cottingley fairies.
- Emphasis on critical thinking and verification of extraordinary claims.
- Exploration of human psychology's fascination with mysteries and conspiracies.
Debunking Myths: The Science of Navigation and Flat Earth Theories
- Discussion highlights the importance of scientific research versus entertaining debunking videos.
- Exploration of map projections reveals misconceptions about Earth's shape.
- The excitement around solar eclipses illustrates the public's fascination with science.
Discussion on Flat Earth Misconceptions and Physics
- Flat Earth maps are inaccurately representing Australia and misconceptions abound.
- Physics misconceptions can lead to dangerous experiments, as illustrated by a truck jump.
- Understanding physics is crucial to debunking widespread Flat Earth beliefs.
People Mentioned
Mick West
Flat Earth debunker, Researcher, debunker
CJ Wiley
Professional pool player
Eric DeBay
Author and YouTube figure promoting conspiracy theories, Flat Earth advocate
Unknown Speaker
Podcaster
Ron Miscavige
Former Scientologist
Les Droud
Friend of the host, Bigfoot show creator
George W. Bush
Former U.S. President
Unnamed Speaker
Commentator, Podcaster, Science Communicator
Places Mentioned
Antarctica
Geographical location
Oregon
U.S. State
Australia
Country
Notable Quotes
"There's way. there's real challenge, like actually break somebody?"
Discussing the difficulty in changing someone's deeply held beliefs.
"Amazing people would decide photos fake believe world round."
Commenting on the disbelief in photographic evidence of the Earth's roundness.
"He's basically recycling theories way popular reader figuring get across people."
Discussing Eric DeBay's method of presenting conspiracy theories.
"Every single scientist would clamoring expose this."
Reflecting on the absurdity of hiding the supposed truth about a flat Earth.
"Flat Earth society members around globe. Whoops."
Discussing the humor in flat earth theories.