In today’s digital age, technology evolves faster than most people can keep up with. While innovation has made life easier, it has also created room for confusion, misinformation, and the spread of unscientific technology myths. These myths are false or misleading beliefs about technology that are not supported by scientific or technical evidence, yet they are widely believed and shared,especially online.

One major reason these myths thrive is a general lack of understanding of how modern technology works. Many technological processes are complex, abstract, and hidden behind screens and systems that users never see. When people do not fully understand how something works, they are more likely to accept simplified, exaggerated, or entirely false explanations.

Another contributing factor is the use of complex jargon and “big words” common in the technology and scientific sectors. Technical language can feel intimidating, and when people encounter explanations filled with unfamiliar terms, they may assume the speaker is knowledgeable and credible,even when the information itself is inaccurate. This creates an environment where misinformation can sound convincing simply because it appears sophisticated.
Trust also plays a significant role. In the age of social media, many people rely on influencers, celebrities, or authority figures for information. When these individuals share unverified or incorrect claims, their followers often accept and spread them without question. This is known as authority bias;the tendency to believe information because of who says it rather than whether it is true.
Social media platforms further amplify the problem. Their algorithms prioritize content that is sensational, emotional, or shocking, not necessarily content that is accurate. As a result, exaggerated claims and unscientific explanations are more likely to go viral than careful, evidence-based information. Once a myth gains traction, people often share it quickly without verifying the source or accuracy.
Psychology also plays a critical role in why unscientific technology myths persist. One key factor is confirmation bias;the tendency for people to believe information that aligns with their existing beliefs or worldview. If a technological myth reinforces what someone already thinks or fears, they are more likely to accept it as truth and share it with others.
In summary, unscientific technology myths are widely believed and shared due to a combination of limited technological understanding, complex language, misplaced trust in authority figures, social media dynamics, and cognitive biases. Combating these myths requires improved digital literacy, critical thinking, and a culture that values verification over virality. Only then can people navigate technology with clarity rather than confusion.