In March 2024, the US Department of Defense stated that there was no proof of the US government encountering alien life, but this declaration did not change many people’s beliefs. The belief in extraterrestrial beings is strong, fueled by UFO sightings and popular media. Despite the lack of evidence, the prevalence of television shows, books, and movies on the topic only reinforces these beliefs.
UFOs have been a cultural phenomenon since the 1940s and have experienced a resurgence in the early twenty-first century. The rise of conspiracy theories surrounding aliens and UFOs has led to discussions in Congress and the popular television series “Ancient Aliens.” These theories find inspiration from Charles Fort, a man who gained notoriety in the early 1900s for compiling reports of strange events from newspapers and journals.
Fort’s fascination with anomalies challenged the scientific explanations of the time and paved the way for a community of followers known as the Forteans. These individuals distrusted science and official explanations, leading to a wave of skepticism towards traditional beliefs. Fort’s influence extended beyond his time, inspiring generations of doubters and conspiracy theorists who question established knowledge.
While Forteanism has had a lasting impact on popular culture, it has also raised concerns among scientists and rationalists. Critics have labeled Forteans as cultists and cranks, warning about the dangers of blurring the lines between science and pseudoscience. The tension between believers in anomalies and skeptics has persisted over the years, highlighting the need for critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning.
The problem with embracing enchanted thinking, as popularized by Fort and his followers, is the erosion of trust in institutions and experts. By challenging established truths and promoting conspiracy theories, Forteanism has contributed to a climate of doubt and skepticism. This lack of confidence in science, medicine, politics, and the media can have far-reaching consequences for society as a whole.
While science benefits from outsiders who question accepted theories, it also relies on standards of evidence and objectivity. Forteans and their modern counterparts often fall short of these standards, leading to the spread of misinformation and unsubstantiated claims. As we navigate a world filled with grand conspiracy theories and mistrust, it is essential to uphold principles of truth, accountability, and professionalism in our pursuit of knowledge.
