There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
Noam ChomskyRead
Occasionally the conflict between 'what we stand for' and 'what we do' has been forthrightly addressed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the disparity between our principles and actions.
Noam Chomsky's quote emphasizes the importance of aligning our beliefs with our actions. It suggests that there are times when we must confront the uncomfortable reality of how our behaviors may not reflect our stated values, prompting a need for introspection and consistency in our lives.
Themes
ValuesActionsConflictPrinciplesIntrospection
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about personal integrity, one might quote Chomsky to emphasize the need for consistency between beliefs and actions.
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.
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
In all people I see myself - none more, and not one a barleycorn less; And the good or bad I say of myself, I say of them.
Walt WhitmanRead
Truly it is glorious, our being here.
Rainer Maria RilkeRead
If growing up is painful for the Southern Black girl, being aware of her displacement is the rust on the razor that threatens the throat. It is an unnecessary insult.
Maya AngelouRead
Standing alone among great democratic nations in imposing the death penalty is another moral decision that Americansare being forced to confront.
Jimmy CarterRead
While the goal of the American dream is to make much of us, the goal of the gospel is to make much of God.
David PlattRead
The only things standing between you and the compassionate, wise, and creative person you want to be are matters of choice. Your choice. No one can occupy your generosity except you.
Gary ZukavRead