Parents of today can no longer claim the unlimited freedom to be ignorant, nor can responsible governments. They cannot ignore the most recent scientific discoveries. Damage to the brain structure of beaten children is no longer a matter of conjecture, but can be clearly seen on the screens of researchers' computers. Child psychiatrist Dr. Bruce D. Perry, a leading researcher in the field of neuroscience, has conclusively shown the destructive effects of fear. Violence to children produces a violent and ill society.
True authority dismisses humiliation.
Its discipline is based on listening and talking, on trust, respect and protection of the weaker. It gives children the assistance they need to become responsible adults who will not turn to vengeful actions such as wars and dictatorships. Sir, As a former psychoanalyst and an author of nine books concerning the influence of childhood on society, I take the liberty of writing to you and asking you to give some attention to the problem of smacking children. When we smack children we teach them only violence, ignorance and hypocrisy. These people rarely recall any concrete incidents or constructive lessons because they were too scared to learn them.