Conspiracy theories

Conspiracy theories have increased dramatically among the Pakistani people in recent years. Such theories tend to lead people into darkness. Once a conspiracy theory takes root in people’s minds, it becomes extremely difficult to dispel it. In Pakistan, high school students are the biggest victims of these false theories due to the lack of critical thinking strategies taught in schools.

In this context, conspiracy theories spread like a virus in societies where individuals tend to rely on the judgments of a certain group of people. So they form their opinions without seeking information themselves. Likewise, when attempts are made to combat a conspiracy theory, those attempts themselves are turned into a conspiracy.

Five years ago, when I was in high school, an elder told me that the United States was the main obstacle to Pakistan’s efforts to achieve peace, prosperity and progress. I believed his story and blamed the US for causing unrest in my country without obtaining reliable information.

Breaking the chains of conspiracy theories is the need of the hour. People should realize how dangerous such false theories can be. On the other hand, these theories benefit exploitative politicians. For decades, certain politicians have used conspiracy theories for their political gain.

To effectively counter conspiracy theories, analytical thinking skills through an improved education system can break the mold of these false theories. There is also a crucial need to eradicate the non-questioning culture from the country. This will pave the way for people to search for information and do research on their own.

SHEZAD AHMED BROHI,

Larkano.