A freshman at Eagle Rock Junior High, a high school in Idaho Falls, Idaho, urged people to sign a petition demanding strict control or total elimination of the chemical "dihydrogen monoxide."

He claims that the dangerous compound can cause excessive sweating and vomiting and severe burns in its gaseous state. It is a major component in acid rain, contributes to erosion, decreases effectiveness of automobile brakes, and has been found in tumors of terminal patients. Accidental inhalation of dihydrogen monoxide can kill.

Of the 50 people that supported a ban on dihydrogen monoxide, 43 said yes, six were undecided, and only one knew what the chemical really was.

The freshman won first prize at the Greater Idaho Falls Science Fair, April 26, 1997. The title of his prize winning project was, "How Gullible Are We?"

Dihydrogen monoxide at room temperature.



To find out more:

Dihydrogen Monoxide Research Division
Dihydrogen Monoxide Findings Summary

Religion is another area where people have a tendency to be gullible. Extreme examples can be found in David Koresh's followers and the Heaven's Gate cult. But it can happen any time we believe someone without checking out God's Word to see if what is being taught is the truth. Faith does not mean blindly accepting whatever anyone (even a preacher) says.

Alan Smith
Thought for the Day
Boone Church of Christ

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