There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
Noam ChomskyRead
Policy is largely set by economic elites and organized groups representing business interests with little concern for public attitudes or public safety, as long as the public remains passive and obedient.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Policy decisions often priorititize the interests of the wealthy and powerful over public safety and opinion.
In this quote, Noam Chomsky emphasizes the influence of economic elites and organized groups in shaping policies that largely ignore the public's perspective and well-being. He suggests that as long as the general populace remains passive and obedient, those in power will continue to disregard the public’s needs in favor of their own interests.
Themes
PolicyElitesPublic SafetyEconomic InterestsPassivity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a debate on public policy reforms.
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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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