Popular podcast host Joe Rogan recently revealed that his skepticism regarding UFOs and ancient civilization theories has significantly diminished over time.
During a recorded conversation, Rogan reflected on his changing viewpoints since around 2018-2019, when he attended a gathering at tech entrepreneur Peter Thiel‘s residence. “Back then I was much more in line with lost civilization,” Rogan explained, referring to theories that suggest advanced human civilizations existed in prehistoric times. At that point, he believed humans “had achieved very high levels of technology and sophistication,” but rejected the notion of “aliens” or “alien intervention.”
However, Rogan admitted his position has evolved: “I’ve kind of shifted now.” He even referenced the Anunnaki—divine beings in ancient Mesopotamian mythology that some alternative theorists believe were extraterrestrial visitors—saying, “Maybe the Anunnaki are real.”
His companion in the conversation noted that Rogan has “switched back and forth” on these topics over the years. They reminded him about his previous interest in Zecharia Sitchin, an author who proposed controversial theories about ancient astronauts and human origins based on his interpretations of Sumerian texts.
The discussion highlighted the challenges of evaluating information outside one’s expertise, particularly regarding ancient language translations. Rogan mentioned a conversation with scholar Wes Huff, who apparently told him that even experts struggle with comprehensive understanding of ancient Sumerian, casting doubt on Sitchin’s claimed ability to interpret these texts accurately.
Rogan’s shifting perspective mirrors broader public interest in unexplained phenomena, especially following the U.S. government’s increasing transparency regarding Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) in recent years. His openness to reconsidering long-held positions demonstrates the complex nature of these enduring mysteries.
Yet, Rogan’s fascination with pseudo-archaeology—especially the work of figures like Graham Hancock, who argues that mainstream archaeologists are suppressing evidence of a lost advanced Ice Age civilization akin to Atlantis—reveals a broader cultural moment. As Dibble explains, this reflects an anti-science, anti-intellectual trend where conspiracy theories cast mainstream experts as gatekeepers hiding “the truth.” Such pseudo-archaeological narratives function as compelling entertainment, as seen in popular media like Netflix’s “Ancient Apocalypse,” offering mysterious and fantastical accounts of lost civilizations.
Rogan’s approach often involves embracing claims from pseudo-experts who mimic scientific language and mannerisms but lack rigorous methodology. These personalities appeal directly to public audiences rather than convincing professional peers through peer review, frequently framing themselves as victims “canceled” by the scientific establishment. Importantly, this pseudo-archaeology can serve as a gateway to more harmful ideologies. Ultimately, Rogan’s evolving belief system appears to favor entertaining speculation over the patient, methodical work of legitimate archaeological science.
Whether his current position represents the final evolution of his thinking or just another step in an ongoing intellectual journey remains to be seen.
