Hollow Earth theory

The Hollow Earth theory is a concept proposing that the planet Earth is entirely or largely hollow and may even contain substantial internal habitats. While this idea has appeared in various cultures and historical texts, it lacks scientific support and is widely regarded as a pseudoscience. ### Historical Background 1. **Early Ideas**: Ancient myths and texts, including some from ancient civilizations, alluded to underground worlds or realms. For instance, in some interpretations, the Greek myth of Hades and the Norse concept of Svartálfar (dark elves) hint at an underworld. 2. **Science and Literature**: The modern Hollow Earth theory gained traction in the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1692, Edmond Halley, an astronomer, proposed that Earth consisted of a hollow shell and potentially two inner concentric shells. His idea was based on the anomalous behavior of compass needles. 3. **20th Century Popularity**: The Hollow Earth idea was popularized in the 19th and 20th centuries through literature and fictional works, such as Jules Verne's "Journey to the Center of the Earth." Additionally, some individuals and groups in the early to mid-20th century, such as the writers of science fiction and even some conspiracy theorists, began to adopt and promote this hypothesis. ### Claims and Beliefs Proponents of Hollow Earth theory have suggested various ideas, including: - There exist advanced civilizations living within the Earth. - This inner world has its own ecosystems, landscapes, and potentially even a sun-like luminescent body. - The poles (especially the North Pole) are entry points to this inner world. ### Scientific Perspective - **Geological Evidence**: Modern geological sciences, seismology, and gravitational studies have provided extensive evidence about the Earth's composition. The Earth has a solid crust, a viscous mantle, and a liquid outer core, surrounded by a solid inner core. These findings strongly contradict the premise of a hollow Earth. - **Gravity**: The laws of physics, particularly gravity, would not support the stability of a hollow planet as proposed by Hollow Earth theories. - **Scientific Consensus**: The overwhelming consensus in the scientific community dismisses the Hollow Earth theory as lacking credible evidence and scientific basis. In summary, while the Hollow Earth theory is a fascinating speculative concept that has inspired various forms of creative expression, it is not supported by scientific evidence or mainstream geology.