Let’s assume that Matt Cutts speaks for all of Google. Ok, assumed. And as it turns out, you still shouldn’t look to Google for any predictions involving the apocalypse.
Back in March of 2010, the possibility of the world coming to an end in 2012 was already a buzzed-about topic. So much so, that it even slipped its way into a question directed at Matt Cutts as part of the Google Webmaster Help series. James Slater asked Matt if Google thinks the world will end in 2012.
Matt’s official response: “I believe Google has no official position on that.”
And as we quickly approach the end of the Mayan Calendar, it appears that his response hasn’t changed. Slater followed up with Matt Cutts earlier today, wondering if his two-year-old response was still accurate on Twitter. Here’s the new response:
@mattcutts
Matt Cutts@jamslater I’m sticking with my answer 🙂
23 minutes ago via web · Reply · Retweet · Favorite · powered by @socialditto
For their part, NASA does have an official position on the matter:
Nothing bad will happen to the Earth in 2012. Our planet has been getting along just fine for more than 4 billion years, and credible scientists worldwide know of no threat associated with 2012.
Worldwide, a recent poll showed that one in seven think that the world will end in their lifetime, and 10% linked that feeling to the whole Mayan calendar deal. As of now, Google’s lack of position is understandable. If you start seeing a direct answer in search results like the mock-up above, then it’s probably time to panic.