Fact check: Is mark a reptile

1. Summary of the results

The claim about Mark Zuckerberg being a reptile is a well-documented internet conspiracy theory that has been explicitly denied by Zuckerberg himself during a Facebook Live Q&A ^[1]. The theory appears to have originated from a 2010 Time magazine cover photo where some people claimed his eyes appeared reptilian ^[1]. Claims about Zuckerberg having a "tail" or other reptilian features have been proven to be based on digitally altered images and internet memes ^[2].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question lacks important context about the origin and evolution of this conspiracy theory:

• The conspiracy is part of a broader belief system held by a fringe group that believes in "lizard shape-shifters" ^[1]
• This has been a persistent internet phenomenon since at least 2010 ^[1]
• The theory gained enough traction that Zuckerberg felt compelled to publicly address it during a Q&A session ^[1]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

Several factors contribute to the spread of this misinformation:

• Social media amplification: The conspiracy has spread through viral social media posts and memes ^[2]
• Manipulated evidence: Proponents of the theory use digitally altered images to support their claims ^[2]
• Confirmation bias: People interpret normal photographs, like the 2010 Time magazine cover, through the lens of their existing beliefs about "reptilian" features ^[1]

This conspiracy theory benefits several groups:

• Content creators who generate engagement and views through sensational conspiracy content
• Anti-tech activists who use these theories to undermine trust in tech companies and their leaders
• Conspiracy theory communities who use this narrative to support broader theories about shape-shifting reptilian beings