Define 'centuries'. Plural suggests several, for me it's been out of the standard of study for about...100 years at most? Possibly closer to two. [Ah, yes, turn of the century 1800s.] You make a good argument for the practice. If things we once believed impossible prove to be the norm, why not other things?

Starting out with a hard-hitting question, I see. I'm partial to mysteries, horror, or thrillers. Though I'll admit to giving most any novel a chance if the premise is interesting enough.