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 institutions certainly exist, but a tradition of passivity and conformism restricts their use - a cynic might say that this is why they continue to exist.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Free institutions are present, but societal norms often discourage their active use.
In this quote, Noam Chomsky reflects on the existence of free institutions, suggesting that while they are available, a prevailing attitude of passivity and conformity among individuals limits their effectiveness and engagement. The implication is that people may not utilize their freedoms fully due to societal pressures, leading a cynic to believe that this very dynamic is what allows such institutions to persist without being challenged.
Themes
FreedomInstitutionsConformismPassivitySociety
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the importance of civic engagement, this quote could highlight the barriers people face in utilizing their freedoms.
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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.
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The Republican Party has become overwhelmingly so extreme that it's hardly a traditional political party anymore.
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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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If I were a younger man, I would write a history of human stupidity; and I would climb to the top of Mount McCabe and lie down on my back with my history for a pillow; and I would take from the ground some of the blue-white poison that makes statues of men; and I would make a statue of myself, lying on my back, grinning horribly, and thumbing my nose at You Know Who.
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I think one of the great historical contributions of science is to weaken the hold of religion. That's a good thing.
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