OPINION: Over the past few years, I’ve dedicated a significant amount of time to debunking outlandish nonsense and exposing the flaws in popular conspiracy theories. What’s concerning is how we’ve traded common sense for embracing unverified claims, all while reframing the term “conspiracy theory” itself. Some argue that the CIA coined the term to discredit truth-tellers, as if that somehow gives anyone the right to promote baseless claims while dodging accountability. The reality is, just because a theory sounds intriguing doesn’t make it true, and the burden of proof still lies with those making the claims. Instead of investigating facts, too many get swept up in a whirlwind of confirmation bias, jumping from one theory to another like a ’70s swinger disco party, as if that somehow validates their beliefs.
Take, for instance, the wide range of conspiracy theories floating around—from supposed bioweapon labs in Ukraine, to the myth of the “Ghost of Kyiv,” and the infamous Jewish space lasers allegedly used to ignite wildfires. Or how about the claims that hurricanes can be deliberately steered to certain regions for political gain? These theories share a common thread: they dangle a carrot in front of people and provide a rabbit hole for them to dive into. Unfortunately, many jump in headfirst without pausing to consider why they embarked on that journey in the first place. It’s like a giant ADHD-athon of topic-switching and sensationalism.
The phrase “I’m just asking questions” often serves as a rhetorical shield for spreading misinformation. It presents an illusion of intellectual curiosity while deflecting responsibility for any false implications embedded in those questions. When people ask a series of suggestive or leading questions, they aren’t genuinely looking for answers; they’re more often trying to cast doubt or push a specific narrative.
Wildfires as “Land Grabs” and Space Lasers: The Wyoming Example
Every year, wildfires devastate large areas of the western U.S., including Wyoming. Dry conditions, wind, and vegetation provide natural fuel. Yet, conspiracy theorists claim that the government starts these fires to drive people off valuable land or that technology like space lasers is used for strategic purposes. The idea gained traction during the 2023 Lahaina fires in Hawaii, where similar unfounded claims circulated online.
The Real Causes of Wildfires
In reality, wildfires are primarily caused by natural factors such as lightning, wind, and drought, combined with human activities like campfires, electrical malfunctions, or arson. In Wyoming, invasive grasses like cheatgrass have added to the fuel load, turning dry landscapes into tinderboxes. It’s far more plausible to attribute these fires to a combination of environmental and human factors rather than a government plot involving space lasers. Moreover, if the government wanted to seize land, there are far less elaborate and destructive means available—like eminent domain.
The Lithium and Hurricane Helene Conspiracy
Another theory claims that Hurricane Helene just recently was diverted into southern “red states” to manipulate elections and seize lithium deposits. Supposedly, the government used technologies like HAARP or DARPA to achieve this. These claims fail basic scientific scrutiny.
How Hurricanes Form and Move
Hurricanes form from natural processes driven by warm ocean waters, wind patterns, and atmospheric moisture. Their paths are influenced by the Coriolis effect, jet streams, and sea temperatures—not covert government technology. Even if such weather manipulation capabilities existed, the potential for unpredictable and widespread consequences would make it a terrible strategy for any covert operation.
The Inconsistency: Rejecting Simple Explanations While Embracing the Fantastical
It’s ironic that many who champion these conspiracy theories reject straightforward explanations for natural disasters while embracing convoluted and fantastical narratives. They dismiss common causes for wildfires or hurricanes but eagerly accept unproven claims about space lasers or HAARP’s weather control capabilities. This inconsistency shows that these theories stem not from skepticism, but from a desire to believe anything that challenges mainstream narratives.
Why These Theories Don’t Hold Up
If there truly were a large-scale effort to manipulate weather or start fires for strategic reasons, we would see credible whistleblower accounts, substantial evidence of weather manipulation, or documents outlining such operations. The logistics, legal risks, and sheer complexity involved in engineering natural disasters without being exposed are insurmountable. Moreover, satellite data—accessible to scientists and researchers worldwide—would make a secret weather-control plot almost impossible to conceal.
The Real Evidence
- Lahaina Fires: Investigations traced the cause of the 2023 Lahaina fires to high winds from a passing hurricane, pre-existing dry conditions, and downed power lines—not space lasers.
- Wyoming Wildfires: Fires in Wyoming occur frequently due to dry conditions, seasonal lightning, and accumulated dead vegetation. There’s no credible evidence to suggest these are part of any government plot.
- HAARP and Weather Modification Myths: HAARP is a research program aimed at studying the ionosphere, not controlling weather. Mainstream science and credible research have consistently debunked claims of large-scale weather manipulation.
The Accountability Problem
The “I’m just asking questions” tactic perpetuates baseless theories while evading responsibility. Claims about bioweapon labs, space lasers, and hurricanes manipulated for political reasons are not grounded in fact. Just because you can’t explain a phenomenon doesn’t prove your theory. In fact, it means the opposite—you need evidence and facts, not just outlandish claims that lead to more biases.
In a world where critical thinking often takes a back seat to sensationalism, it’s essential to remember that just because a rabbit hole is deep doesn’t mean there’s treasure at the bottom. Instead of jumping headfirst into every theory that challenges the mainstream, it’s time to demand real evidence and accountability from those who push baseless claims.
“The Don’t Unfriend Me Show” explores a broad range of political themes, from satire to serious topics, with Matt Speer, a Navy Intel veteran, husband, and father, leading the show. Matt shares his views to stimulate constructive discussions. The show aims to provide a balanced perspective on complex issues, welcoming participants of all political affiliations to share their unique viewpoints.
Good analysis Matthew!