Final answer:
Mann would argue that the 'pristine myth' contributes to people thinking aliens built ancient cities due to its portrayal of Indigenous peoples as passive and incapable of creating civilizations. Challenging this myth is important to recognize the achievements of Indigenous civilizations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on his argument in 1491, Mann would say that the 'pristine myth' or Holmberg's mistake contributes to people thinking aliens built ancient cities because it perpetuates the idea that Indigenous peoples in the Americas were primitive and incapable of creating sophisticated civilizations on their own. Mann argues that the 'pristine myth' portrays Indigenous peoples as passive and untouched by human activity, erasing their agency and achievements.
By dismissing evidence of complex civilizations in the Americas before Columbus, the 'pristine myth' fuels the idea that these civilizations must have been created by someone else, namely aliens. This belief stems from a Eurocentric perspective that devalues the accomplishments and knowledge of Indigenous peoples.
It is important to challenge the 'pristine myth' and recognize the ingenuity and cultural achievements of Indigenous civilizations. This can be done by examining archaeological evidence and listening to the perspectives of Indigenous communities.