Mental Floss

MISCONCEPTIONS

Sophisticated and fool-proof.

No, spies aren't all focused on national security. Yes, the CIA did deploy a mission called Operation Acoustic Kitty.

Justin Dodd


Simon Le Bon of Duran Duran rocks a mull—er, bi-level haircut.

Whether you lived through the ‘80s or merely have absorbed some details via 'Stranger Things,' take a look at some of the myths surrounding the "me decade."

Jake Rossen






Jesus probably wasn't born on December 25.

'Tis the season to bust some myths about our favorite holiday celebrations, from the origins of the Hanukkah dreidel to Jesus's real birthday.

Alvin Ward
ADHD can’t be diagnosed from a stock photo.

ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, is one of the more misunderstood mental health conditions in popular culture.

Jon Mayer








Cats aren't the curmudgeons you've been led to believe. That still doesn't mean they like bowties.

From the mysteries behind their meows to what all that purring is about, we're breaking down some myths about our feline companions.

Kerry Wolfe


French gunners during World War I, circa 1914.

We're shedding light on some common misconceptions about World War I, including who was actually involved and when the fighting officially ended.

Ellen Gutoskey


CCCP USA Superman, French Cold War Political Protest Poster

We're detailing some of the most common misconceptions about the Cold War, including how close we came to World War III and Pepsi's impact on world affairs.

Jason Serafino


A painting of the Battle of Pea Ridge, which was fought from May 7 to 8, 1862

The Civil War remains one of the most important chapters in American history. But the conflict itself was more complex than North vs. South.

Jason Serafino


A spectacled flying-fox bat in Australia.

If you're worried that a bat is looking to swoop down at any given moment and suck down a few pints of your precious blood, we've got really great news for you.

Michele Debczak
The painting The Thirteenth Vendemiaire, October 5, 1795 depicts a key battle during the French Revolution.

If you think 'Les Misérables' taught you everything you need to know about the French Revolution, you might be surprised to learn that it was actually set during a completely different uprising.

Ellen Gutoskey