There is no plausible theory under which the record of the Pentagon Papers can be interpreted as relating to the national defense.
Noam ChomskyRead
If we choose, we can live in a world of comforting illusion.
Interpretation
What this quote means
We have the option to live in denial or face harsh truths.
Noam Chomsky's quote suggests that individuals have the ability to opt for a distorted perception of reality rather than confronting the uncomfortable truths of the world. This highlights the human tendency to prefer comforting beliefs over challenging realities, which can lead to a disconnect from actual circumstances and hinder personal growth.
Themes
IllusionRealityTruthPerceptionComfort
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about society's tendency to ignore problems, one might say, 'As Noam Chomsky once said, we can live in a world of comforting illusion.'
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If you're teaching today what you were teaching five years ago, either the field is dead or you are.
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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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