Mon Oct 07 02:10:00 UTC 2024: ## “Guns Don’t Kill People, Misinformation Does”: A Dangerous Narrative

**Toronto, Canada** – Dr. Todd Hayen, a registered psychotherapist, argues that the growing focus on “misinformation” as a catalyst for violence is a dangerous manipulation tactic, designed to erode free speech under the guise of safeguarding society.

In an article published on off-guardian.org, Hayen draws parallels between the gun control debate and the current push for censorship. He argues that just as guns are not inherently evil, but rather tools used by individuals, information, regardless of its content, is neutral. Attributing violence to “misinformation” is akin to blaming cars for drunk driving accidents, he says.

“The authoritarian position seems to be that ‘misinformation’ is causing much of the ‘insane’ criminal activity in the world today,” Hayen writes. He argues that establishing a causal link between misinformation and violence is impossible, and that attempting to censor all “misinformation” would effectively silence all free speech.

Hayen further emphasizes that focusing on censorship as a solution ignores the root causes of violence, which lie in mental health issues and societal ills. Instead of restricting access to information, he advocates for fostering critical thinking, educating children to discern truth from falsehood, and building a society where hate and violence have no place.

“We are supposed to have the faculty to do such a discernment, and not require mommy or daddy to come to our rescue and tell the big bad bully to stop hurting our feelings,” Hayen writes. He advocates for combating harmful speech through education and promoting positive values, rather than resorting to censorship.

Hayen’s article serves as a critical voice against the growing trend of labeling information as “misinformation” and using it as a justification for censorship. He calls for a nuanced approach that prioritizes critical thinking, education, and societal change over restricting access to information and silencing dissenting voices.

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