There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
Noam ChomskyRead
States are not moral agents, people are, and can impose moral standards on powerful institutions.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes that moral responsibility lies with individuals rather than governments or institutions.
Noam Chomsky's quote underscores the idea that while states and institutions hold power, it is ultimately individuals who possess the capacity for moral judgment. This suggests that it is the responsibility of people to impose ethical standards on these powerful entities, rather than blindly following their actions. It calls for accountability and reminds us that significant change begins with individual moral agency.
Themes
MoralityResponsibilityIndividualsPowerEthics
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be referenced in a discussion about social justice and individual accountability.
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
Be careful, lest in casting out your demon you exorcise the best thing in you.
Friedrich NietzscheRead
While sin is overflowing, [grace] pours itself forth so exuberantly, that it not only overcomes the flood of sin, but wholly absorbs it.
John CalvinRead
The good man's past begins to change so that his forgiven sins and remembered sorrows take on the quality of Heaven.
C. S. LewisRead
No pen can give an adequate description of the all-pervading corruption produced by slavery.
Harriet Ann JacobsRead
I think it is the height of ignorance to believe that the sexual act is an independent function necessary like sleeping or eating. Seeing, therefore, that I did not desire more children, I began to strive after self-control. There was endless difficulty in the task.
Mahatma GandhiRead
If it were possible to have a life absolutely free from every feeling of sin, what a terrifying vacuum it would be.
Cesare PaveseRead