There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
One of the greatest dangers is secular religion - state worship.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Secular religion refers to an ideology that demands loyalty similar to traditional religions, and state worship signifies excessive devotion to the state.
Noam Chomsky critiques the concept of secular religion, pointing out that state worship can become a significant danger, as it can lead individuals to prioritize allegiance to the state above critical thinking or moral considerations. This can create an environment where blind loyalty overshadows personal conscience and ethical behavior, potentially resulting in authoritarianism and the suppression of individual freedoms.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the role of government in society, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of maintaining a critical perspective on state power.
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
Truth is not a reward for good behaviour, nor a prize for passing some tests. It cannot be brought about. It is the primary, the unborn, the ancient source of all that is. You are eligible because you are. You need not merit truth. It is your own....Stand still, be quiet.
To live in the Great Way is neither easy nor difficult, but those with limited views are fearful and irresolute: the faster they hurry, the slower they go, and clinging cannot be limited: even to be attached to the idea of enlightenment is to go astray. Just let things be in their own way and there will be neither coming nor going. Obey the nature of things (your own nature), and you will walk freely and undisturbed.
When you meet with opposition, even if it should be from your husband or your children, endeavor to overcome it by argument and not by authority, for a victory dependent upon authority is unreal and illusory.
Let go of all ideas and images in your mind, they come and go and arenβt even generated by you. So why pay so much attention to your imagination when reality is for the realizing right now?
If, sir, men were all virtuous, I should with great alacrity teach them all to fly. But what would be the security of the good if the bad could at pleasure invade them from the sky? Against an army sailing through the clouds neither wall, nor mountains, nor seas could afford any security.
Physicians of the utmost fame, Were called at once; but when they came They answered, as they took their fees, 'There is no Cure for this Disease.'