25 Things Once Taught in School That Turned Out to be Lies (2024)

Space observation has truly transcended traditional telescopes, offering accessible methods for enthusiasts to explore the cosmos. Utilizing modern technology, individuals can engage in celestial observation like never before. With just a smartphone or an astronomy app, users can identify constellations and planets and even track satellites like the International Space Station.

Binoculars, too, have come a long way, enhancing stargazing by magnifying celestial objects; some even provide small views of distant galaxies, stars, and planets. Your smartphone alone can see the mirror on the moon. Additionally, satellite-tracking apps allow enthusiasts to monitor satellite positions and trajectories for celestial events and space missions. These accessible tools empower enthusiasts to embark on their cosmic journeys, fostering a deeper connection to the wonders of the universe. You don't need to be Galileo or have a million dollar device any more, you really can, just look up.

Remember learning about the five senses—sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch? Well, hold onto your sensory hats because there's more to the story! While our traditional understanding was limited to these five, science has broadened our perspective. Turns out humans have a whole range of sensory abilities beyond the classics. (We're sure you already knew you had other superpowers.) Enter Proprioception, the sense of body awareness.

Science keeps finding more senses, from time perception to a sense of gravity, totaling around 30 senses. With these additional senses, humans experience the world in even more nuanced and fascinating ways than we once thought possible. So, next time you count your senses, remember — it's not just about the classic five anymore!

People used to say, "We only use 10% of our brains." They would go on to exclaim, "What if we used the other 90%?!" Well, that turned out to be a classic case of misinformation. Thanks to advancements in brain imaging technology, we now know better. Our brains constantly buzz with activity, engaging various regions for different tasks. From processing sensory information to controlling movement and regulating emotions, the brain is a marvel of complexity.

Functional MRI scans reveal that even seemingly idle moments involve intricate neural networks at work. So, next time someone mentions the 10% myth, kindly inform them that our brains are firing on all cylinders, orchestrating a symphony of thoughts, sensations, and actions every single day. We're all using 100% of our brains, even if sometimes, some people seem like they're not.

Forget what you learned about light being the speed champion of the cosmos. Turns out, the universe has some surprises up its sleeve! In recent years, scientists have discovered particles like neutrinos that defy the cosmic speed limit set by light. These speedy little guys have been observed zipping through space faster than photons in certain experiments, leaving physicists scratching their heads.

But fear not, Einstein aficionados! While these findings might seem like they're turning the laws of physics upside down, Einstein's theory of relativity still reigns supreme in the scientific realm. It's a reminder that even in a universe full of surprises, some things — like the fundamental principles of physics — remain steadfast. So, while neutrinos might be giving light a run for its money, Einstein's legacy remains intact, keeping our understanding of the cosmos grounded in the principles of relativity.

Remember when spelling bees seemed like the ultimate measure of intelligence? How times have changed. Thanks to spell checks and autocorrect, the urge to spell every word precisely has subsided, somewhat. Nowadays, it's more important to convey your message effectivel, than to obsess about each word.

In today's world, understanding context and effectively communicating ideas take priority over correcting typos.

Basic spelling abilities are still useful, although it isn't as important as it once was. After all, why would you sweat over spelling when your gadget can correct it with a simple touch.

While spelling independently was formerly considered a sign of literacy, technology has changed the emphasis to more general communication abilities. So, embrace your inner wordsmith without fear of misspelling — your spell checker has your back!

Gone are the days when a hefty bank account was a prerequisite for international travel. Today, jet-setting around the globe is more accessible than ever, regardless of your financial status. Dear wanderlustrs, you don't need a bulging wallet to explore foreign lands anymore. With the rise of budget travel options, like hostels and couch-surfing, even the most cash-strapped adventurers can roam freely.

Moreover, platforms such as Workaway and WWOOF connect travelers with opportunities for work exchange, enabling them to trade skills for travel expenses, lodging, and meals. So, whether you're teaching English in Thailand or farming in France, there's a world of possibilities awaiting you, regardless of your bank balance. Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure without breaking the bank!

Back in the day, not having your calculator felt like a mathematical disaster and every teacher pressed that you needed to understand math not to exercise your brain, but rather because you would need it as a tool later in life. With the emergence of smartphones, the dependable calculator is now a simple touch away. So much infact that it was one of the first things added to not only PCs, but also your smartphone.

Need to quickly crunch some numbers? No problemo — just take out your phone and start your computations! While fundamental arithmetic abilities remain crucial, the necessity for mental math has diminished in the era of technology. Sure, it's convenient to be able to add and subtract mentally, but why bother when your smartphone can do it quicker and more accurately? Today, the emphasis has moved toward comprehending mathematical principles and problem-solving procedures.

It use to be believed that having neat cursive handwriting was the key to achieving success in life. Oh how times have definitely changed. In the digital age, handwriting and, well really cursive, have become less important as we rely more on technology for communication. Typing speed has become the new handwriting. It's used for everything from writing emails and drafting documents to chatting with friends.

So, nowadays, schools are more focused on teaching typing skills rather than honing cursive loops. We can quickly jot down ideas, send messages, and create stories in no time at all. The goal behind cursive was to allow you to communicate quickly in letters and papers without having to lift your pen at all. So, consequently, since typing is a faster way of communication, we have adopted this transmission technique.

A long, long time ago being handy with a needle and thread was seen as a crucial life skill. But hold onto your buttons, because times have changed! With the rise of ready-made clothing and the convenience of online shopping, sewing expertise isn't as vital as it once was. Instead of stitching up our own clothing, we can easily find affordable and stylish options just a few clicks away.

That said, sewing still holds its charm as a creative and practical hobby. Many folks enjoy crafting unique pieces or mending cherished items, but it's no longer a must-have skill for everyday clothing needs. Many schools across the nation have even gone so far as to remove sewing classes from their curriculum. So, while sewing remains a valuable talent, it's no longer stitched into the fabric of daily life like it used to be.

Once upon a time, it was commonly believed that everyone had a preferred learning style, or at least one that helped them learn best — whether auditory, visual, or kinesthetic. But wait, let's hit pause on that notion for a moment! While the idea of learning styles has been ingrained in educational practices, recent research challenges its validity.

Studies indicate that individuals might not be as locked into one specific learning style as once assumed. Instead, our learning preferences can vary based on context, content, and even mood. This doesn't mean learning styles are entirely irrelevant, though. Mixing and matching different approaches — like lectures, hands-on activities, and visual aids — can enhance comprehension and retention for all learners.

There's an age-old adage that goes "You can be anything you want, as long as you put your mind to it." It's a lovely sentiment, and oh how very human. But let's dive a little deeper into this sea of aspirations. While the belief in limitless potential is undoubtedly uplifting, the reality is a bit more nuanced. Sure, passion and determination can take you far, but let's not ignore the elephants in the room — real-world constraints and societal barriers.

Not everyone has the same body; much less equal access to opportunities, resources, or support systems. That's not to say you shouldn't dream big or pursue your passions. It's just a gentle reminder to navigate the waters of ambition with a dose of realism. So, yes, chase your dreams with gusto, but also remember to consider the practicalities and possibilities along the way.

Scientific evidence used to be considered the last word, the unquestionable solution to all of life's problems. But the scientific terrain is significantly more complex. Research is always changing, hence what is deemed "proof" now might not be tomorrow. In dealing with complexity and ambiguity, science understands that quite frequently, absolute certainty is an illusion.

Even strict peer review procedures cannot ensure infallibility of scientific results. Nowadays, scientific agreement is often the closest thing we have to "proof," but it is an agreement that recognizes the boundaries of our knowledge. Thus, even when science offers priceless insights, it is important to approach its results with a good dose of humility and critical thought.

Got Milk? While dairy has long been touted for its calcium content and bone-strengthening benefits, the reality is a bit more nuanced. The idea that milk is universally beneficial is a relic of nutritional misinformation. While it's true that dairy products can be a source of calcium and other nutrients, they're not essential for everyone, and for some, they can even cause digestive discomfort or allergies.

The influence of the dairy industry has played a significant role in perpetuating the myth of milk being essential for every human. In truth, individual dietary needs vary, and there are plenty of alternative sources of calcium and nutrients for those who choose to go dairy-free. So, while milk may have its place in some diets, it's far from being a one-size-fits-all solution for optimal health.

“Let them eat cake,” is a phrase that’s been used to show howout of touchrulers (and people) are. Well, the first time it appeared, it was in Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s autobiography in reference toMarie-Therese, who was married to King Louis XIV in 1660. In fact, when the book was published,Antoinette was only nineand hadn’t even married.

And on top of this, the phrase that Marie Antoinette supposedly said was not even aboutcake. The phrase, "Qu’ils mangent de la brioche," refers tobrioche, a type of bread. And while the bread is somewhat sweet, you wouldn't really call it cake. It's not cake.So, just lies all around.

The classic age-old fear of "robots stealing our jobs." While automation has certainly changed the landscape of work, the future isn't as bleak as some may think. Sure, machines are great at repetitive tasks and can work tirelessly without breaks, but they haven't quite mastered the human touch.

In reality, automation often complements human labor rather than replacing it entirely. Think of it more as a partnership between humans and machines. As technology evolves, it creates new roles and opportunities that didn't exist before.

Plus, there are certain skills — like creativity, empathy, and critical thinking — that humans excel at and machines struggle to replicate.

So, while the rise of automation may shift the nature of work, it doesn't mean we'll all be out of a job anytime soon. Instead, it's an opportunity for us to embrace new technologies, adapt to changing industries, and leverage our uniquely human abilities to thrive in the workforce of tomorrow.

Some of us out there were taught about the tongue taste map, where certain sections were responsible for specific tastes like sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. Well, turns out, that's more fiction than fact. The idea of distinct taste regions on the tongue has been debunked by a whole bunch of scientific research. In reality, our taste buds are capable of detecting all flavors and are spread all about the entire tongue.

Moreover, taste bud sensitivity varies individually, influencing how we perceive different flavors. But taste isn't just about taste buds; it's a complex interplay of smell, texture, temperature, and even cultural influences. So, the next time you savor your favorite dish, appreciate the intricate symphony of sensations happening not just on your tongue, but throughout your entire sensory experience.

The Food Guide Pyramid (FGP) was once hailed as the ultimate guide to healthy eating. However, it's time to retire this relic of nutritional advice, forever, please. The traditional US food pyramid (Yes, many nations have one), with its emphasis on grains as the foundation and fats at the top, has been criticized for its oversimplification and promotion of carbohydrate-heavy diets. In its place, the USDA introduced MyPlate, offering a more balanced representation of food groups and portion sizes.

Alas, even MyPlate has its limitations, as it doesn't account for individual dietary needs and preferences. In today's world, where dietary trends vary widely and nutritional science continues to evolve, a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn't suffice. Instead, it's essential to tailor nutrition guidance to each person's unique circ*mstances, preferences, and health goals. So, while the food pyramid may have served its purpose in the past, it's time to embrace a more personalized approach to healthy eating.

It was once a mantra: ace your classes, secure a scholarship, land in a prestigious college, and your future was golden. Turns out, that's not the golden ticket anymore. Scholarships aren't always a given, especially with rising lifestyle costs and inflation eating into incomes. Employers today look for more than just 'book smarts'; they want a cultural fit and practical experience in theirapplicants.

Networking and accepting entry-level positions have become critical elements on the professional path. Also, let's not forget about the vibrant world of blue-collar employment that provide decent wages (and unions). In today's world, a successful existence requires not just academic proficiency but flexibility, networking skills, and a desire to broaden one's skill set. This is the dawning of the age of.. the Jack of all trades.

Back in the Cold War era, there was a widespread belief that hiding under a desk could protect you from nuclear bombs. It's a chilling reminder of the fear and uncertainty of that time. However, the truth is that a desk offers limited protection against the devastating effects of a nuclear explosion. While taking cover may shield you from some debris and initial blast effects, it's unlikely to provide sufficient protection from the intense heat, radiation, and fallout that follow.

Relying on more successful security measures, like diplomatic initiatives, disarmament treaties, and nuclear non-proliferation agreements, is essential in the modern world when the danger of nuclear war still exists. Though it might make one feel nostalgic or even ridiculous, the picture of hiding behind a desk is a sobering reminder of the serious repercussions of nuclear war and the need for working together and diplomatically to achieve peace and security.

Since beginning a sentence with a conjunction was formerly seen to be bad form according to traditional grammatical norms, the world has changed. But, that's an outdated way of thinking! And beginning sentences with conjunctions is not only perfectly acceptable in modern English, it is actively encouraged. For you may add flow and emphasis to your writing by employing words like "but," "and," and "because," as well as other comparable terminology.

Consequently, you should fear not about violating any unspoken rules in writing, and feel free to express your ideas. So, by using conjunctions at the beginning of sentences, we may infuse them with life, thus enhancing the dynamism and captivation of your work. Yet, some are still a bit afraid to use such words; don't be scared to begin such a sentence with the words "but" or "and" without hesitation!

We're sure many of you remember learning about the nine planets in our solar system. Well, hold onto your seat because there's more to the story now! In 2006 we saw Pluto removed from the long list. So, now alongside the eight familiar planets like Earth and Mars, there are now 5 dwarf planets officially recognized by astronomers.

These celestial bodies, include Pluto, Ceres, Haumea, Makemake, and Eris, orbit the sun just like planets, but have their own distinct characteristics. While they may be smaller and have different compositions compared to the traditional planets, dwarf planets play an essential role in our understanding of the vastness and diversity of our solar system. So, next time you're discussing the planets, don't forget about these fascinating dwarf counterparts!

Contrary to popular belief, the Great Wall of China is not the only human-made structure visible from space. Several other large structures and cities are visible from space with the naked eye or satellite imagery. Modern technology allows for detailed satellite imagery, making various human-made structures visible from space.

While it's undoubtedly impressive, it's not the sole standout. From massive bridges to urban landscapes, our modern tools offer breathtaking views of Earth's human ingenuity. So, if you're dreaming of leaving your mark visible from the cosmos, aim big! Who knows, maybe one day your creation will be the next iconic sight admired by astronauts orbiting our planet.

Think you have to leave the comfort of home to earn a living? Not anymore! In today's world, remote work is the name of the game. With the rise of telecommuting and virtual collaboration tools, you can now bring home the bacon without ever stepping foot outside your door. Whether you're a freelance writer, a software developer, or a customer service representative, there's a good chance you can do your job from the comfort of your pajamas.

So, forget the outdated assumption that in order to earn money, you have to travel to an office. Embrace the flexible nature of working from home and take advantage of the benefits of earning a salary without having to leave your house!

We once thought the periodic table was set in stone. Turns out, it's a work in progress. Over the years, scientists have discovered and added new elements to the periodic table, expanding our understanding of the building blocks of the universe. These elements, often created in particle accelerator experiments, push the boundaries of our knowledge and challenge the completeness of the periodic table as we once knew it.

So, while you might have memorized the periodic table in school, remember that it's always evolving as scientists uncover new elements and unlock the secrets of the universe. Who knows what surprises the next row of the periodic table will bring? Maybe vibranium!

This one may be hard to explain, butstick with me. Our mental idea of maps isvery off.For example, most of us grow up thinking Europe is right across from the United States, but that’s wrong. In fact,Europe lines up with Canada with Paris being further north than Montreal.

Barcelonais at a similar latitude asChicago, and Venice lines up with Portland, Oregon. Who knew?

The point, being however,things are much closer than they appearand sometimes much further. Maps can be quite misleading if you don't know how to read them.

Author Jennifer Freehill Last Updated: May 24, 2024