There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
Noam ChomskyRead
The probability of apocalypse soon cannot be realistically estimated, but it is surely too high for any sane person to contemplate with equanimity.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The likelihood of an impending apocalypse is uncertain, yet it is alarming enough to cause concern among rational individuals.
Noam Chomsky emphasizes the unpredictability of catastrophic events, suggesting that while we cannot quantify the exact chance of an apocalypse, the mere thought of it is disturbing for anyone who maintains a rational perspective. This quote underlines the existential anxiety that many people feel regarding future uncertainties, advocating for a mindful approach to contemplating such dire possibilities.
Themes
ApocalypseProbabilityContemplationRationalityExistentialism
In practice
Example use cases
Use this quote in a discussion about climate change and its potential catastrophic effects.
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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.
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