Class of 2005
We found 12 concepts from your education that have since evolved or been debunked
What you were taught
"Girls are naturally not as good at math as boys"
What we know now
A 2011 study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, using global data, disproved the notion that there is a natural male/female gap in mathematical achievement. The study concluded that differences in math performance are due to social and cultural circumstances, not biology.
What you were taught
"IQ tests are the definitive measure of intelligence"
What we know now
A 2012 study by the University of Ontario debunked the theory that IQ tests are the sole definitive measure of a person's intelligence. Researchers found that many factors impact the results of such tests, and a single, standardized test yields misleading and imperfect results.
What you were taught
"The marshmallow test proved willpower predicts success"
What we know now
The famous marshmallow test was conducted by Walter Mischel in the 1970s, but subsequent research has shown that willpower is not a reliable predictor of success. Instead, success is more closely tied to factors like intelligence, social skills, and perseverance.
What you were taught
"Amelia Earhart's disappearance was solved by a photo"
What we know now
In 2017, a photograph appeared to prove that Amelia Earhart survived her plane crash and was taken prisoner by the Japanese. However, it was later proven that the photo was taken two years before her disappearance, leaving the mystery unsolved.
What you were taught
"Planet X (Planet 9) exists and explains gravitational pull"
What we know now
While scientists observed a strange gravitational pull in a nearby solar system, the theory that it was caused by a mystery planet (Planet X or Planet 9) was challenged in 2019. Other scientists proved that a large amount of debris could just as easily explain that pull.
What you were taught
"Dinosaurs shed their skin all at once like snakes"
What we know now
Contrary to previous beliefs, scientists have discovered proof that dinosaurs shed their skin a little at a time, comparable to human dandruff, not all at once like snakes or lizards.
What you were taught
"Mars was a dry, barren planet"
What we know now
For many years, Mars was thought to be a dry, barren planet. However, in 2011, scientists discovered evidence of saltwater on the surface of Mars, indicating the possibility of simple organisms.
What you were taught
"King Richard III was a hunchback"
What we know now
History taught that King Richard III was a hunchback. However, after the discovery of his remains, it was proven that he had scoliosis (curvature of the spine), not a hunchback.