David Swanson, a 2015 Nobel Peace Prize nominee, spoke about his newest book, “War is a Lie,” to an audience of roughly 70 on Saturday.
Rather than focus on individual wars, Swanson analyzed noble ideals used to justify wars in the public sphere.
“War is one of the top worst things we do,” Swanson said, explaining why he chose to write about violent conflicts. “I think having a good life and being an ethical, moral person is trying to stop the worst things that are happening.”
During his speech at Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, located at 4225 NW 34th St., Swanson discussed presidential candidates, media coverage of wars, the public’s aversion to uncomfortable news, military spending and global perceptions of America.
Gainesville’s Veterans for Peace, a national organization that advocates for nonviolent social change, invited Swanson to speak.
“It’s true what he said,” said Sheila Payne, an associate member of the organization. “We all look away from headlines we don’t want to see.”
Saturday was Swanson’s final day in Florida. Last week, Swanson spoke to audiences in Sarasota and Jacksonville.
Diane Carlin, a resident of The Villages, Florida, asked Swanson how she can trust his version of history.
“I footnote and hyperlink,” he said. “You have to look at multiple original sources and undisputable sources. Unpleasant does not equal untrue.”
