Why do so many people not believe in the Big Bang?

In summary, many people do not believe in the Big Bang due to a combination of factors including religious beliefs that conflict with scientific explanations, a lack of understanding of the science behind the theory, skepticism towards scientific authorities, and the influence of alternative theories. Additionally, some individuals may feel more comfortable with creationist narratives that align with their personal or cultural values, leading to resistance against established scientific consensus.
  • #1
BadgerBadger92
165
82
I see these people everywhere and I wonder why people don’t believe it. Does anyone know why some people think this way?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
BadgerBadger92 said:
I see these people everywhere and I wonder why people don’t believe it. Does anyone know why some people think this way?
There is some pleasure to be taken in the thought that "I am smarter than those silly scientists". There is some pain to be avoided by not thinking too hard about how one's preconceived view might be wrong.

We believe that which is comfortable to believe. This is a bias that is important to be aware of when striving to think critically.
 
  • Like
Likes phinds and BadgerBadger92
  • #3
It is not consistent with their everyday experiences.
 
  • Like
Likes Astronuc, russ_watters, BillTre and 2 others
  • #4
Frabjous said:
It is not consistent with their everyday experiences.
And with their book.
 
  • Like
Likes weirdoguy, BillTre, fresh_42 and 1 other person
  • #5
I’ve also been seeing a lot of anti relativity talk too.
 
  • #6
Why are you shocked that other people don't beleve what we tell them. You don't either. For example, did you follow our advice when you started your community college course?
 
  • Like
Likes russ_watters
  • #7
Vanadium 50 said:
Why are you shocked that other people don't beleve what we tell them. You don't either. For example, did you follow our advice when you started your community college course?
I’m going this summer.

I was afraid to go before because I have low confidence in myself. Now I just want to at least try it. More so than finding a better job, I want to learn about the topic. Unfortunately I don’t think they teach relativity or quantum mechanics in community college.
 
Last edited:
  • #8
BadgerBadger92 said:
I don’t think they teach relativity or quantum mechanics in community college.
You need to get past long division first:

Pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, Algebra 2, trig, Calculus 1 and 2, Differential equations, College Physics 1 and 2, and then you'll be ready to take those classes. But this isn't the first time you have said this, and it has yet to happen.

In short, you're doing exactly what you don't want others to do. Only the topic is different.
 
  • #9
Vanadium 50 said:
You need to get past long division first:

Pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, Algebra 2, trig, Calculus 1 and 2, Differential equations, College Physics 1 and 2, and then you'll be ready to take those classes. But this isn't the first time you have said this, and it has yet to happen.

In short, you're doing exactly what you don't want others to do. Only the topic is different.
I know high school algebra.

I really don’t need your negativity right now. My mom is in a critical state in the hospital and I don’t need you to hurt me more than I am.
 
  • #10
I am sorry about your mother. But you shouldn't be surprised that you are getting pushback to the idea that we should look down on these other people who are doing something very similar to what you ahve done here for a decade.
 
  • Like
Likes BillTre
  • #11
Vanadium 50 said:
I am sorry about your mother. But you shouldn't be surprised that you are getting pushback to the idea that we should look down on these other people who are doing something very similar to what you ahve done here for a decade.
When have I insulted people on this forum?
 
  • #12
BadgerBadger92 said:
Does anyone know why some people think this way?
Most people, have never heard of the Big Bang.
It can be dismissed, as it is a complexity, not relevant to their life.

While I do understand the concept, I do not believe firmly in anything. I am always open to consider alternative interpretations.
I am not a member of the Church of the Big Bang.
 
  • #13
Thread is paused for a bit...
 
  • Like
Likes fresh_42
  • #14
BadgerBadger92 said:
I see these people everywhere and I wonder why people don’t believe it. Does anyone know why some people think this way?
This thread was doomed from the start; it is now tied off.
 
  • Like
Likes Klystron, Bystander, BillTre and 1 other person

FAQ: Why do so many people not believe in the Big Bang?

Why do so many people not believe in the Big Bang?

There are several reasons why some people do not believe in the Big Bang theory. These include a lack of understanding of the scientific evidence, religious beliefs that conflict with the theory, the complexity of the science involved, skepticism about scientific consensus, and the influence of misinformation. Each of these factors can contribute to a person's reluctance to accept the Big Bang as the explanation for the origin of the universe.

Is the Big Bang theory just a theory and not a fact?

The term "theory" in scientific context is often misunderstood. A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is based on a body of evidence and has stood up to repeated testing and scrutiny. The Big Bang theory is supported by a wide range of observations, including the cosmic microwave background radiation, the abundance of light elements, and the redshift of galaxies, making it the most widely accepted explanation for the origin of the universe among scientists.

How do religious beliefs impact acceptance of the Big Bang theory?

For some individuals, religious beliefs play a significant role in their worldview and can conflict with the scientific explanation provided by the Big Bang theory. Some religious doctrines propose different origins of the universe that are not compatible with the scientific model. This can lead to a rejection of the Big Bang theory in favor of religious explanations. However, many people find ways to reconcile their religious beliefs with scientific understanding.

Why is the Big Bang theory considered complex and difficult to understand?

The Big Bang theory involves advanced concepts in physics, cosmology, and mathematics, which can be challenging for people without a scientific background to fully grasp. The idea that the universe expanded from an extremely hot and dense state is abstract and counterintuitive, making it difficult for some to comprehend. This complexity can lead to skepticism or rejection of the theory.

How does misinformation contribute to disbelief in the Big Bang theory?

Misinformation and the spread of pseudoscience can significantly impact public perception of scientific theories. Misleading information, whether from media sources, social platforms, or individuals, can create confusion and doubt about the validity of the Big Bang theory. This can lead people to question or reject the scientific consensus, especially if they do not have access to accurate scientific education or resources.

Similar threads

Replies
10
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
14
Views
1K
Replies
9
Views
1K
Back
Top