The Flat Earth Watch: A Growing Community of Skeptics in Brazil

In the bustling streets of São Paulo, a peculiar phenomenon has emerged - a community of flat-Earthers, free to share their beliefs without fear of ridicule. This secretive and sometimes paranoid group communicates through encrypted messages on WhatsApp, invitation-only Facebook groups, and YouTube channels that boast tens of thousands of followers. One of President Jair Bolsonaro's most prominent ideologues, Olavo de Carvalho, has surprisingly stated that he 'cannot refute' Flat-Earth theory.

According to polling firm Datafolha, a staggering 11 million people in Brazil - seven percent of the population - believe the Earth is flat. This influence extends far beyond the country's borders, particularly in a time when the post-truth era and anti-intellectualism are on the rise. Bolsonaro himself has publicly professed his Flat-Earth beliefs, stating that 'the only things I know for certain are that I'm going to die someday and that the Earth is flat.'

Ricardo, a 60-something man who owns a restaurant in São Paulo, has become a hub for like-minded individuals who reject the notion of a spherical Earth. His establishment serves as a meeting place where people can gather to discuss their beliefs without fear of judgment.

The Flat-Earth community's presence is undeniable, and its impact on Brazilian society cannot be ignored. As a nation grapples with climate change skepticism and anti-intellectualism, it is essential to understand the motivations behind this phenomenon. Are these individuals genuinely convinced that the Earth is flat, or are they using this belief as a means to reject mainstream science and authority?

Regardless of their reasons, the Flat-Earth Watch has become an integral part of Brazilian culture, with its influence stretching far beyond the borders of this South American country. As we continue to navigate the complexities of truth and reality in our increasingly polarized world, it is crucial that we acknowledge and engage with the Flat Earth movement, no matter how peculiar or misguided it may seem.

Flat earth watch