Ep 3. Walk a Straight Line

In this episode of MythBusters, the team takes on the challenge of testing whether it is possible for a person to walk a perfectly straight line without any external aids or reference points. This myth has been a popular one for a long time, with many people believing that it is impossible for a person to do so.

To start off, the team sets up a large, empty room with no external reference points such as windows or doors. They then proceed to blindfold a group of volunteers and ask them to walk in a straight line from one end of the room to the other. The volunteers end up walking in circles or zigzagging, proving that it is indeed difficult to walk in a straight line without any external references.

Next, the team explores some of the theories and tricks that people have used to try and walk straight. They test the theory that having one foot anchored while the other foot moves forward can help to keep a person straight, but this theory is quickly proven false. They also explore the use of magnets or other external aids to help a person stay straight, but again, these techniques prove to be ineffective.

Finally, the team turns to technology to see if there is any way to override the brain's natural tendency to walk in circles. They set up a virtual reality simulation that allows people to walk in a straight line without any external cues, and they find that this is much more successful than the previous techniques they tried. However, even with the help of the virtual reality technology, people still have a tendency to veer off course after a certain period of time.

In the end, the team concludes that while it is possible for a person to walk in a straight line without external cues or reference points, it is difficult to do so and requires a great deal of concentration and focus. They also find that there is no foolproof method for walking straight, whether it be using physical aids or technology. Despite this, the team declares the myth busted, as it is technically possible for a person to walk straight under the right circumstances.

Overall, this episode of MythBusters offers an entertaining and informative exploration of a popular myth. The team's scientific and hands-on approach to testing the myth helps to dispel common misconceptions and offers new insights into the workings of the human brain and body. Fans of the show and those interested in the science of perception and movement are sure to enjoy this episode.