On the other hand, can one really keep an open mind to about any out-of-line idea just in case one of the thousands might turn out true? I'm not sure how this attitude could work, Hancock isn't even the looniest out there, so how do you decide where to draw the line? My question is not about one specific theory, but about the process: how exactly should one decide (for oneself, and for further investigation) which theories to "keep open mind" and which to classify to the bin?
One option is ask "will this adversely impact me or a loved one if I am wrong". IMHO, people unnecessary feel the need to have a conclusive opinion on most topics.