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Dunning-Kruger effect and flat-earthers: An exploratory analysis.
Jose Luis Arroyo-Barrigüete1, Carlos Bellón Núñez-Mera1, Jesús Labrador Fernández1
1Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Spain.
Summary
Belief in a flat Earth is linked to low scientific literacy and high overconfidence. This combination, known as the Dunning-Kruger effect, significantly predicts flat Earth beliefs in Spain.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Science Communication
Background:
- The flat Earth phenomenon has gained traction online, particularly in Spanish-speaking communities.
- Understanding the psychological drivers behind pseudoscientific beliefs is crucial for science communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze factors influencing flat Earth belief in Spain.
- To investigate the role of scientific literacy and overconfidence in this belief.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of YouTube videos from prominent flat Earth channels.
- A survey of 1252 individuals to assess scientific literacy and confidence levels.
Main Results:
- A significant Dunning-Kruger effect was observed in flat Earth believers, characterized by low scientific literacy and high overconfidence.
- A negative correlation exists between overall science literacy and self-perceived scientific confidence in this group.
- Regression analysis revealed that the interaction between low scientific literacy and high overconfidence strongly predicts flat Earth belief.
Conclusions:
- Neither low scientific literacy nor high overconfidence alone determines flat Earth belief.
- The combined effect of low scientific literacy and high overconfidence is a key factor driving belief in a flat Earth.
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