Looking back on 2005, I realize that much of what I heard -- and what the media said -- turned out to be myths. Newsweek reported that U.S. interrogators had flushed a Koran down a Guantanamo Bay toilet. After Hurricane Katrina, reporters said that sharks from Lake Pontchartrain were swimming through New Orleans, and roving bands of armed gang members were attacking the helpless. Myth after myth. So to celebrate the new year, I'd like to review my top 10 list of foolish myths. (ABC will broadcast a televised version of this column in "20/20"'s timeslot Friday night.):

 No. 10: Americans have less free time than we used to.

 No. 9. Money buys happiness.

 No. 8: Republicans shrink government.

 No. 7: The world is getting too crowded.

 No. 6. Chemicals are killing us.

 No. 5: Guns are bad.

 No. 4: We're drowning in garbage.

 No. 3: We're destroying our forests.

 No. 2: Getting cold will give you a cold.

 No. 1: Life is getting worse. Continued...