The reluctance of some people to accept the truth regarding UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects) over Earth can be attributed to several psychological and sociological factors:
Fear of the unknown: Human beings are often fearful of things they cannot understand or explain. UFOs, by definition, are unidentified, and this lack of clear explanations can cause anxiety and fear.
Confirmation bias: People tend to seek out information that confirms their existing beliefs while ignoring or dismissing information that contradicts them. Some individuals might hold skeptical views about UFOs and extraterrestrial life and actively reject any evidence or reports that suggest otherwise.
Social stigma: Belief in UFOs and extraterrestrial life has, in the past, been associated with fringe or conspiracy theories. People may fear being ridiculed or ostracized for expressing interest or belief in UFOs, leading them to avoid the topic altogether.
Lack of credible evidence: While there have been many UFO sightings reported throughout history, the majority of them remain unverified or explained as natural or man-made phenomena. Skeptics argue that the lack of concrete, scientifically-validated evidence is a reason to remain doubtful.
Emotional and cognitive biases: Emotions and cognitive biases can influence how people interpret and respond to information. For instance, the mere association of UFOs with science fiction or the supernatural can trigger cognitive biases that impede objective evaluation.
Trust in authorities: Many people place significant trust in established authorities, such as governments and scientific institutions. If these authorities have historically downplayed or dismissed UFO sightings, it can impact public perception and willingness to accept the reality of UFOs.
Paradigm shifts: Accepting the existence of UFOs and potential extraterrestrial visitations would require a significant paradigm shift in our understanding of the universe and our place in it. Such shifts can be challenging for individuals and society as a whole.
Misinformation and hoaxes: The topic of UFOs has been plagued by hoaxes and misinformation over the years, making it harder for genuine reports to be taken seriously.
Regarding Christopher Columbus, there are some historical accounts of supposed UFO sightings in his logbook, describing strange lights in the sky. However, it is important to remember that historical records may be subject to various interpretations and are often lacking in details or scientific rigor.
Overall, people's attitudes toward UFOs are diverse and shaped by a combination of psychological, cultural, and societal factors. As more credible evidence and scientific research are conducted, attitudes and perceptions might continue to evolve.