There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
Noam ChomskyRead
Free speech has been used by the Supreme Court to give immense power to the wealthiest members of our society.
Interpretation
The quote critiques how free speech is often exploited by the wealthy to amplify their influence and control.
Noam Chomsky's quote highlights the paradox of free speech in the context of power dynamics, suggesting that while free speech is a fundamental right, it disproportionately benefits those with significant financial resources, allowing them to dominate public discourse and shape societal norms in their favor. This raises critical questions about equality and the true function of free speech in a democratic society.
In practice
In a debate about campaign finance reform, this quote can highlight how free speech influences political power.
There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
The 'free-floating intellectual' may occupy himself with problems because of their inherent interest and importance, perhaps to little effect.
If you're teaching today what you were teaching five years ago, either the field is dead or you are.
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.
The Republican Party has become overwhelmingly so extreme that it's hardly a traditional political party anymore.
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.
Black women's intersectional experiences of racism and sexism have been a central but forgotten dynamic in the unfolding of feminist and antiracist agendas.
Everyone has a story; everyone hides his past as a means of self-preservation. Some just do it better, and more thoroughly, than others.
In reality, both religion and science are expressions of man's uncertainty. Perhaps the paradox is that certainty, whether it be in science or religion, is dangerous.
If you seek authenticity for authenticity's sake you are no longer authentic.
Bad times, hard times, this is what people keep saying; but let us live well, and times shall be good. We are the times: Such as we are, such are the times.
He that will maintain that man's free will is able to do or work anything in spiritual cases, be they never so small, denies Christ.
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