There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
Noam ChomskyRead
Even the most cynical can hardly be surprised by the antics of Nixon and his accomplices as they are gradually revealed. It matters little, at this point, where the exact truth lies in the maze of perjury, evasion, and of contempt for the normal - hardly inspiring - standards of political conduct.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects skepticism towards political behavior and the gradual unveiling of dishonesty in leadership.
Noam Chomsky's quote expresses a critical view of political conduct, particularly highlighting the actions of Nixon and his associates. It suggests that even those who are generally cynical about politics are not surprised by the unethical behaviors that have come to light, indicating a broader disillusionment with the integrity of political figures and the system itself.
Themes
PoliticsDishonestyLeadershipCynicismTruth
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about political trust, this quote can underscore the need for transparency in leadership.
More from Noam Chomsky
All quotes →The 'free-floating intellectual' may occupy himself with problems because of their inherent interest and importance, perhaps to little effect.
Noam ChomskyRead
If you're teaching today what you were teaching five years ago, either the field is dead or you are.
Noam ChomskyRead
There are very few people who are going to look into the mirror and say, 'That person I see is a savage monster;' instead, they make up some construction that justifies what they do.
Noam ChomskyRead
The Republican Party has become overwhelmingly so extreme that it's hardly a traditional political party anymore.
Noam ChomskyRead
There is still much debate about whether torture has been effective in eliciting information - the assumption being, apparently, that if it is effective, then it may be justified.
Noam ChomskyRead
Similar quotes
The organized workers of America, free in their industrial life, conscious partners in production, secure in their homes and enjoying a decent standard of living, will prove the finest bulwark against the intrusion of alien doctrines of government.
John L. LewisRead
I don't think that people are disinterested or uninterested in politics. I think very often they are disengaged from the formal political process. To some extent they are suspicious or even despairing of formal politics as a means to give expression and effect to what they want.
John BercowRead
Democracy is a system where people are counted not weighed.
Muhammad IqbalRead
I think that America's recovery of a global strategic view is an absolutely essential element of our foreign policy.
Henry KissingerRead
We are the most powerful nation on earth. No external power, no terrorist organization can defeat us. But we can defeat ourselves by getting caught in a quagmire.
George SorosRead
This is a country for, of, and by the people not for, of, and by the government. If we turn it over to them we cannot complain about what they're doing because this is a natural course of men and we have to hold their feet to the fire.
Benjamin CarsonRead