#Mythbusting

[mlembug]

Fact checking the discord ai training chain letter

it does not make sense to have "invisible magic discord bots which are hidden in your server" as a result of a supposed partnership between discord and some ai company, because if discord wanted to secretly give some ai company your messages or uploaded images, then

they don't need a fucking bot to do this, they already have the data

what makes you think you would able to counteract this by using discord's features

furthermore, "partnerships" are mutual: if a company claims that a partnership exists when no such partnership exists, discord can tell them to knock it off or announce that no such partnership exists, and guess what, the article does not mention any such partnership, it says "we launched an app", which is like, whatever, it's inside all the other shovelware hidden in the menus no one clicks.

the evidence for "invisible magic bots" is super flimsy and results in misunderstanding about how banning works (banning a user by id and then seeing the entry in audit logs). in reality, you can ban users that are not present in your server, which I've been doing as a preventive measure for years at this point when I see someone on another server doing stuff I would be banning for if they were present on my server.

you also can't add apps or bots to your server without having "manage server" permission.

furthermore, as a bot, you can't read messages on the server without opting in with enabling message content intent, and needing explicit approval from discord for this.

(this is what you see in discord developer portal in the bots settings. "Read more here" leads to this website)

in fact, "application commands" discord feature that the bot uses was introduced specifically so bots don't have to read every message on the server to see if it starts with an exclamation mark or whatever in order to know if to react to it, and how.

there are also "external apps" which are per-user, rather than per-app, but these are basically equivalent of a user DMing a bot, and they don't have access to anything aside from whatever user sends them, and, if the role has has "use external apps" permission enabled in the channel, they can send a message as a result of a user action.

and yes, potentially a member of your server could send some image in it to an AI company by using the application command, but then again they can also right click -> save and upload it to chatgpt. your threat model is fucking bonkers.

conclusion: the original message is fearmongering based on misunderstanding on how discord, or computers in general, work.

[defilerwyrm]

So is the whole "phallo is EXTREMELY dangerous and riskier than heart surgery" shit untrue too..I really hope it is...

Oh yeah, it’s absolutely a crock of shit.

Listen, any time you go under general anesthesia is risky, and the longer you’re under, the more risks there are. So a surgery that takes 6-8 hours, no matter what it is, is going to be potentially dangerous.

But it’s important to know that a risk being present doesn’t make it LIKELY. You take at least as much risk driving to the grocery store as you would having phalloplasty—and if lightning strikes and something life-threatening DOES happen to you on the road, you’re not going to have an entire team of highly-trained, well-equipped medical personnel literally standing over you seeing to your wellbeing when it happens.

The single most important thing that gets considered when deciding if a patient needs surgery is whether the potential risks are outweighed by the benefits. I think the fact a 2020 study found that 59% of trans men were under the impression that bottom surgery is “too risky” but 97% of those who’ve had radial arm flap phalloplasty report full satisfaction with the results says a lot, don’t you? (Source)

[thelorelounge]

WEREWOLF MYTHS DEBUNKED (It’s Not All Full Moons and Fur, Folks)

MYTH 1: “Werewolves Only Transform During a Full Moon”

BUSTED: Listen, you’ve been watching too many horror movies. The “full moon = transformation” is so outdated, and honestly, it’s not even universal. In a lot of folklore, werewolves can shift at will — moonlight or no moonlight.

Some versions even let you transform whenever you're angry or stressed (so basically, you’re already halfway there).

Moral of the story: The moon’s not your schedule manager.

MYTH 2: “Werewolves Can’t Control Themselves”

BUSTED: While some versions of werewolf lore focus on losing control during a transformation (hi, The Wolf Man), in many legends, werewolves actually retain their humanity.

They might have intense instincts or primal urges, but they can definitely still think, plan, and — for the most part — make rational decisions. Just because you're part wolf doesn't mean you're doomed to run through the woods biting everyone you see.

Moral: Don't assume that being a werewolf means you lose your social graces. You can still RSVP to dinner parties.

MYTH 3: “A Werewolf’s Bite Turns You Into One”

BUSTED: Okay, this one’s super popular, especially in movies, but it's not always true. In classic folklore, a bite from a werewolf doesn’t automatically turn someone into one.

You could get bitten and just… die. Or you could be cursed for other reasons, like an angry witch or a very bad horoscope. It’s complicated, okay?

Moral: A werewolf bite might just send you to the ER, but no need to stress about becoming one of them unless there’s an actual curse involved.

MYTH 4: “You Can Only Kill a Werewolf with Silver”

BUSTED: The silver bullet myth is, well, a myth — at least in a lot of older werewolf legends. While silver does pop up in modern lore, it wasn't the go-to weapon in all of them.

In fact, some cultures just used regular weapons or magic to kill werewolves. Silver doesn’t have to be your emergency plan. But you know, if you’ve got it, just in case, sure, go for it.

Moral: Don’t just rely on silver if you find yourself face-to-face with a werewolf. A baseball bat might just do the trick.

MYTH 5: “Werewolves Are Always Evil”

BUSTED: Not every werewolf is a bad guy out for blood. There are plenty of folklore stories where werewolves are actually protectors or heroes.

They can be guardians of the forests, warriors against evil forces, or just misunderstood souls who have no desire to harm anyone.

Plus, have you ever seen a werewolf in a flannel shirt? They can look cozy and be totally chill.

Moral: Some werewolves are just regular people who like hiking, eating ramen, and minding their business. You could probably hang out. Maybe skip the garlic bread at dinner, though.

MYTH 6: “Werewolves Can’t Be Humans Again After Transformation”

BUSTED: Many legends feature werewolves who can change back into humans at will, especially if they’re mentally strong or can control their transformations. It’s not always this big dramatic “once you’re a wolf, you’re a wolf forever” situation.

In fact, some folklore says a werewolf can just shed their wolf form like a bad haircut and go back to their human selves whenever they feel like it. That’s confidence, folks.

Moral: It's not always a wolf forever vibe. Maybe the wolf life isn't your aesthetic, and that's perfectly fine.

MYTH 7: “Werewolves Are Just Humans with Fur and Teeth”

BUSTED: Okay, some of the evolution of the werewolf myth says they’re just regular humans that transform, but in many cultures, werewolves are actual hybrid creatures — think wolf-human combos, or even fully monstrous beings with extra claws, red eyes, and really bad attitude.

They’re not just giant humans in fursuits. Think more along the lines of the Bigfoot meets the Hulk vibe.

Moral: When it’s wolf time, don’t expect a suave dude with a little extra hair on his chest. It’s going to get wild.

MYTH 8: “Werewolves Are Always Super Strong and Invincible”

BUSTED: Not every werewolf is a giant superhuman with the strength to destroy entire villages. Some werewolves are just your average human with some rage issues and a bad sense of timing when it comes to full moons.

Many stories include werewolves who can be overpowered by a normal human with some quick thinking, like, say, a crossbow or running faster.

Moral: If you see a werewolf and it looks like it’s just going through some stuff, you might be able to beat it in a race. Don’t bet your life on it, but hey, give it a shot.

MYTH 9: “Being Bitten by a Werewolf Means You’re Doomed to Become One”

BUSTED: Remember earlier when we busted the "bite to become one" myth? Well, here’s the extra fun fact: Being bitten by a werewolf might not even turn you into one.

In some versions of the lore, a werewolf’s bite is just… a bite. No magical transformation, no sudden desire to howl at the moon. Maybe you just get a cool scar or an uncontrollable craving for steak.

Moral: If you get bitten by a werewolf, just go to the hospital. We highly recommend NOT assuming you’re going to turn into a werewolf.

MYTH 10: “Werewolves Only Exist in Fiction”

BUSTED: Let’s be real, there are so many cultures that have had legends about humans shifting into wolves, it’s kind of wild (pun intended).

Whether it’s the Norse Úlfheðnar (warriors who could shift into wolves) or ancient Greek myths about Lycaon, werewolves have been part of the human imagination for thousands of years.

Moral: If you think werewolves are just “a cool thing in movies,” you’re wrong. People have been freaked out by them for centuries.

CONCLUSION: So, the next time you hear someone say, “I’m a werewolf” in a dark alley at midnight (probably not the best place to meet a potential friend), just remember: not everything you’ve seen in movies about werewolves is gospel. They’re more complicated than you think. Just make sure they don’t bite you or try to recruit you for their pack.

[great-health-stuff]

💧 Drinking Water WRONG?! 🤯 5 Hydration Myths You Need to Stop Believing RN!

Hydration feels simple, right? Just drink water! But between the "8 glasses a day" rule and warnings about coffee, the advice can get seriously confusing. 😵‍💫

Are you accidentally sabotaging your hydration game based on outdated myths? Let's bust 5 common ones right now:

Myth #1: You MUST drink exactly 8 glasses (64 oz) of water per day.

BUSTED! 💥 Reality: This is a generic guideline, NOT a universal rule. Your actual water needs depend heavily on factors like your activity level, climate, body size, health status, and diet. Someone working out in the heat needs way more than someone sedentary in a cool office.

Instead: Listen to your body's thirst signals and pay attention to your urine color (aim for pale yellow).

Myth #2: If you feel thirsty, you're already dangerously dehydrated.

BUSTED! 💥 Reality: Thirst is your body's normal and healthy signal that it's time to drink fluids. It doesn't automatically mean you've hit a critical dehydration danger zone. It's simply a cue to rehydrate soon.

Instead: Sip water consistently throughout the day, and definitely drink when you feel thirsty. Don't panic!

Myth #3: Only plain water counts towards your daily hydration.

BUSTED! 💥 Reality: ALL fluids contribute to hydration, along with water-rich foods! Think milk, juice, herbal teas, soups, and even fruits and vegetables (like watermelon, cucumber, oranges). They all add water to your system.

Instead: Enjoy a variety of hydrating fluids and foods. Water is often the best choice (no calories/sugar), but it's not the only choice.

Myth #4: Coffee and tea are dehydrating because they contain caffeine.

BUSTED! 💥 Reality: While caffeine is a mild diuretic (makes you pee a bit more), the water content in coffee and tea far outweighs this effect. They still contribute a net positive amount of fluid to your daily intake.

Instead: Enjoy your coffee or tea in moderation as part of your overall fluid consumption. Just don't rely on highly caffeinated drinks as your sole source of hydration.

Myth #5: Your urine needs to be completely clear to be properly hydrated.

BUSTED! 💥 Reality: Aiming for consistently clear urine might actually mean you're over-hydrating, which can dilute electrolytes. The ideal color is typically a pale, straw-like yellow. Dark yellow usually means drink more; totally clear might mean ease up slightly.

Instead: Use urine color as a general guide, aiming for pale yellow, but don't obsess over achieving crystal clear pee all day long.

The takeaway? Hydration is more nuanced than rigid rules suggest. Focus on listening to your body, sipping fluids consistently, and enjoying water-rich foods. Stay hydrated, stay healthy! ✨

[gunsandspaceships]

Reminder

I have the right to point out inaccuracies and misinformation. And I fucking will.

Feel free to do the same with my statements if you see something wrong (but be sure to provide your evidence as to why this is so to avoid "I just feel/think so" situations).

Assholes who are against fair communication are not welcome, but they won't be blocked or silenced. I'm not like them.

Update: due to the situation with @tragicfantasy-girl I'm changing the rule. If a person uses harassment, threats, violent comments/messages/reblogs, false accusations and the like - they will be blocked.

[illuminatingfacts]

🏚️ Think you know the truth about abandoned places? 🤔 Bust the myths and uncover the facts behind these mysterious locations in our latest blog! 👻✨ https://mentalitch.com/what-are-some-common-myths-about-abandoned-places/

[eat-healthyisgood]

Debunking Low Carb Diet Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction for a Healthier Lifestyle

In today’s world of ever-evolving nutritional advice, Low Carb Diet Myths have taken center stage, captivating both enthusiasts and skeptics alike. With conflicting information circulating online, it becomes essential to sift through the noise and rely on scientifically-backed facts. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the history, types, and numerous aspects of low carb diets while debunking the top 10 myths that have clouded public perception. Whether you’re new to low carb eating or a seasoned pro, this article will provide actionable insights and clear guidance.

Don't let diet myths fool you—Click now to uncover the truth behind low carb diets and kickstart your healthier lifestyle!

[newnitz]

"Why do American taxes pay for Israeli healthcare?"

You don't.

Israel's GDP, as of 2023, is 522.03 billion USD.

US aid is 3.6 billion USD in military aid, which can only be used to import US military equipment, and an additional 5.7 million USD. Totalling up to less than 4.7 billion USD, which is less than 0.9%.

The counterclaim of "since Israel was founded", The US has given Israel 300 billion USD since 1948. For most of those years, Israel was a buffer zone against USSR-backed Arab League states. Additionally, totalling Israel's GDP from 1948-1969, and then from 1995-2023(no data on the 70s, 80s or early 90s, so I'll just exclude it for the least flattering estimate possible), was a whopping total of 7 trillion USD. US military aid for a country that, for 43 years, was its buffer zone, is 4% of its total GDP, with most of it accounting for the Cold War era, before Israel's GDP soared from the stable 2-5 billion it was before 1969 to 62 billion in 1990.

Oh, and another thing:

Israelis have subsidized healthcare, education and so on. Not free. Israelis still have to pay for it.

In fact, do you know what really pays for Israel's (failed) welfare state?

To translate to USD, everyone who makes under 23.5K pays 10% of their salary to taxes. Anyone who makes between that and 33K, 14%. The 20% bracket is up to 54K, the 31% - which in the US is reserved for the American who makes at least 191K, in Israel starts with a little over a fourth of that salary and ends with 75K. And though the US has more tax brackets past that, the Israeli who makes over 201K/year is considered the richest and has to shell out half of their salary for income taxes and social security alone. The average Israeli earns 159K(₪, 44.5K$), means they pay 20% taxes, while the average US citizen earns 59K, meaning they pay 22%, roughly equivalent.

Additionally, Israel's VAT tax is 17%, compared to the 2-7% of the US(varies by state). Vehicle tax in Israel is a whooping 60-84%, in comparison to the US's...Up to 8.25%? Are you guys fucking kidding me? Your cars are practically half free!

And back to the social security: You need a damn good reason to stop paying it. If you're unemployed with no income, you're still charged 194₪/54$ per month. The only ones NOT charged are retirees and the disabled.

So no, your tax money doesn't go to Israelis' welfare. It goes to your own military complex, which constitutes 80% of Israel's military imports.

[freespiritlilith]

Lilith is the Goddess of Freedom Righteous Justice Retribution and Judgment . YHWH is the demon of rape and SARS.

This person is spreading real antisemitism!!!! These lies cause true harm!!!!! So Ravbis now must be inundated with requests from Lilith worshippers because this person says she’s closed??? LILITH IS OPEN AND TO SO MANY SHE IS NOT THE JEWISH RAPE AND SIDS DEMON, SHE IS THEIR DEIFIED WOMAN GODDESS TRANS ICON OF FREEDOM AND JUSTICE SO WHY DO WE PLAY DUMB ON HERE!!!!!!!

STOP PROSELYTIZING YOUR OPINION THAT LILITH IS CLOSED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!SHE IS NOT MALIGN ANY MORE THAN LUCIFER, SATAN, BAAL, HELLO!!! So is it now a new satanic-panic but make is woke and cool and anti-disabled trans icon Goddess Lilith….please

Lilith is in Neon Genesis Evangelion :) and can exist in many manifestations and incarnations. Lilith could be worshiped through pop culture paganism even.

If anyone is writing block wall text essays to justify the ostracization of Lilith from spiritual spaces, NOT EVEN JEWISH SPACES, IN OUR OWN SPIRITUAL SPACES AND CIRCLES THEY ENCROACH!!! Get the fuck out of the lilith tag with your hate.

always remember 2 jews 3 opinions. the one opinion that she’s closed is not necessarily the end all be all, and neither is mine. so please enough of this harsh reactionary satanic-lilith-panic

VIVA LILIT VIVA LILIT VIVA LILIT GODDESS OF GLORY!

[idohistorysometimes]

Teehee, fact time

[autisticwriter]

Part 70: The Dangerous Pseudoscience of Autistic Telepathy

Hello, and welcome back to The Autistic Writer. I hope you’re well. It’s been a hell of a week in light of the announcement that the Spectrum 10k project has been abandoned. While it’s good news, we do need to approach the announcement with caution, as I explained in an extra midweek blog which you can read by clicking here. However, we’re going to talk about something different, here. This is…

[gwydionmisha]

Was Victorian modesty a myth? Fashion history mythbusting with sunscreen and school dress codes

[waystatus]

No complaint about the golf course image, but time for what is quickly becoming my personal bugbear:

Running your AC for a day is way more energy than even the AI use of an AI maniac. There is essentially nothing you can do with a personal computer that would cause more energy expenditure than your AC unit.

And your AC isn't even the worst climate change offender in a typical house or apartment. That's the heat. It's why heat pumps, which are basically just an AC running backwards, are a big energy savings over the ordinary ways places are heated.

See also, "We're in a drought; conserve water!" Meanwhile, bottled water companies and golf courses for rich folk empty the aquifers.

[idohistorysometimes]

Awhile ago I wrote about the Not Deer. I have decided to revisit it and take a stab at the topic again