There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
The uniformity and obedience of the media, which any dictator would admire...
Interpretation
What this quote means
The media often exhibits conformity and compliance that can be likened to the traits valued by dictators.
In this quote, Noam Chomsky critiques the media's tendency towards uniformity and blind obedience, suggesting that such characteristics are paradoxically similar to the behaviors that authoritarian leaders would find desirable. This observation invites a reflection on the role of the media in society and its responsibility to promote diverse viewpoints and encourage critical thinking rather than suppressing dissent in favor of consensus.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a panel discussion about freedom of speech, this quote can be used to highlight the importance of diversity in media reporting.
More from Noam Chomsky
All quotes βThe '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.
Similar quotes
I have no doubt that the nation has suffered more from undue secrecy than from undue disclosure. The government takes good care of itself.
The great Way is easy, yet people prefer the side paths. Be aware when things are out of balance. Stay centered within the Tao. When rich speculators prosper While farmers lose their land; when government officials spend money on weapons instead of cures; when the upper class is extravagant and irresponsible while the poor have nowhere to turn- all this is robbery and chaos. It is not in keeping with the Tao.
Look at you in war...There has never been a just one, never an honorable one, on the part of the instigator of the war.
The thing I love about Marvel in general is that they deal with people. They deal with the human being first: Who is inside the suit? Who is the person that obtained this power or this ability?
As long as we are children, we have the ability to experience things around us--but then we grow used to the world. To grow up is to get drunk on sensory experience.
We are in the grip of a scientific materialism, caught in a vicious cycle where our security today seems to depend on regimentation and weapons which will ruin us tomorrow.