What Myth?

[Erthona]

I think that archeology is considered a science, however that is beside the point. What irritates me is the numerous occasions that scientist will discount, out of hand something that conflicts with their world view. For instance, here is an example of how science should work in an iffy area. The face on Mars. After examining the rock formation that in one photo looked like a human face, Nasa found that picture taken from lower in orbit did not show the same features, or pictures taken at a different time of day, and so on. Nasa concluded after a through examination that the "face" was an optical illusion of reflected light, from the sun hitting a rocky formation at just this one particular angle, and that looking at the formation with higher resolution, without the effects of light and shadow, showed there was not a face, or anything resembling a face carved, or otherwise imposed on the rock formation. What they didn't do is say, well that couldn't happen for we would have to suppose intelligent life was once on Mars, and that just is a lot of science fiction, and if you were real scientist like us you would know that. Sniff! Instead they practiced good science, and did not dismiss it until a careful examination was made and facts gathered. And you said Ed, why wouldn't people be interested in finding the answers one way or another. However, I ran across this quote that I think explains some of it.

“Great and strange ideas transcending experience often have less effect upon men and women than smaller more tangible considerations.”
—H. G. Wells “The Invisible Man”

Or as I would state it, "We are so afraid of appearing silly, we refuse to take the risk!"

and yes, it is sad!

Dale