Ancient Aliens Theory: Why it Still Captivates Millions Despite Debunking

• The theory that aliens aided ancient civilizations, popularized by Erich von Däniken's 1968 book *Chariot of the Gods*, continues to draw millions of believers.
• Von Däniken cited structures like pyramids and enigmatic artifacts as evidence, a narrative amplified by shows like History Channel’s *Ancient Aliens*.
• The theory gained traction during the Cold War, reflecting anxieties about nuclear war, the space race, and rapid technological change.
• Archaeology explains monumental achievements like the Giza pyramids and Göbekli Tepe through human labor, organization, and innovation, not alien intervention.
• Pseudoscience thrives by filling perceived gaps with spectacle, exploiting proportionality bias, and benefiting from distrust in academic institutions and digital amplification.