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July 15,2025
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A great series of interviews with Noam Chomsky took place almost immediately after 9-11. He firmly insists that a retaliation to the tragic events is precisely what the attackers desired. This retaliation, in his view, plays right into the hands of those who carried out the attacks.


Chomsky also vividly shows how the US has resorted to the use of force. He provides numerous examples, primarily from the 1980s but not limited to that decade. These examples serve to illustrate the pattern of the US's actions in different parts of the world.


Moreover, he points out that the US is the only country that has been cited by the UN as using terrorism abroad. This fact, according to Chomsky, is a significant aspect that needs to be considered when analyzing the US's role in the international arena and its response to events like 9-11.

July 15,2025
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9-11 is a remarkable work that consists of a collection of essays and interviews by Noam Chomsky. It was first published in November 2001, right after the tragic terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.

\\n  9-11\\n In these essays, Chomsky provides a comprehensive context for the September 11 attacks. He delves into the history of American intervention in various regions such as the Middle East, Latin America, Indonesia, Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan. At the same time, he issues a stern warning against America's growing dependence on military rhetoric and violence in response to the attacks. He makes a crucial point that few others were making, namely that any escalation of violence as a reaction to violence will inevitably lead to more and bloodier attacks on innocent people both in America and around the world.

The first edition of 9-11 achieved significant success. It was published in over two dozen countries and appeared on several bestseller lists, including those of the Washington Post and the New York Times. An article in The New Yorker praised it, stating that it was practically the only counter-narrative available at a time when questions were being drowned out by a chorus of "God Bless America" led by the entire United States Congress. It was one of the few places where the other side of the story could be found.

September 11, 2001, is often regarded as a date that marks a significant turning point. However, Chomsky argues that while something has indeed changed, it is not in the sense of "nothing will ever be the same again." In his view, the attacks had a new quality, not in terms of their extent or character, but rather in their aim. Since 1812, the United States had not experienced an attack on its own territory, nor had it even been threatened. In this regard, something had already changed, but Chomsky believes that the situation is more complex than a simple statement of total change.

In these six essays, Chomsky, a renowned linguistics professor known for his incisive political analyses and polemics, reveals what he believes is wrong with the anti-terrorist rhetoric that followed the darkest day in American September. He does not present anything that is not already known to everyone. Instead, he draws on his careful reading of newspapers and laws to show us how inattentive our (political) perception is and how easily we can be influenced by mere rhetoric.

Using the definition of terrorism in the US Criminal Code, Chomsky demonstrates that whether the threat or use of force is described as terrorist depends on the specific political circumstances and power structures. He argues that the criminal provision could also be used to condemn American policy as terrorist. There are numerous examples of US military actions that are questionable in this regard, and Chomsky cites several of them. For instance, in 1985, the Reagan government deliberately detonated a bomb-laden truck in front of a mosque just as the faithful were leaving the building. The support of "Israeli atrocities" and the destruction of a pharmaceutical factory in Sudan are also well-documented and branded as such in the chapter titled "State Crimes."

While it may not be necessary to agree with the author's interpretations in every detail, it is difficult to completely reject them. 9-11 is highly recommended for anyone who wishes to view things from a perspective that is significantly different from the one that is usually presented in media coverage (a section of the book is also dedicated to this). It offers a thought-provoking and alternative view of the events and their implications, challenging readers to think critically about the issues at hand.
July 15,2025
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Great one,

It is important to recognize the superpower (king) of organized crime and terrorism, which is the USA. The United States has a long history of being involved in various illegal and violent activities around the world.

Noam Chomsky is an institute that allows us to learn more and more about the deep and vast nature of polity and other aspects. His works provide valuable insights into the political, social, and economic systems of the world.

I will definitely read another of his books to gain a better understanding of these complex issues.

It is essential to be informed and aware of the true nature of power and its implications in order to make positive changes in the world.
July 15,2025
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This was the very first Chomsky book that I had the opportunity to read.

It was truly an eye-opening experience that sparked my interest and led me to explore many other works by him.

I delved into each new book with great enthusiasm, eager to discover more of his profound ideas and theories.

However, as time went on, I gradually began to notice a pattern.

It seemed as if I was constantly reading the same book, just presented in different forms or with slightly different examples.

The initial excitement and新鲜感 started to wear off, and I found myself questioning whether there was really anything new to be gained from reading yet another Chomsky book.

Nonetheless, I still have a great respect for his work and the impact it has had on the field of linguistics and beyond.

Perhaps my perception will change with future readings, but for now, I can't help but feel a sense of déjà vu when approaching his books.

July 15,2025
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After 9-11, the world witnessed a significant shift in its perception of security and the nature of terrorist activities.

This tragic event brought to the forefront the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the motives and methods of terrorists.

Perceptive insights into these events have revealed that terrorism is not a random act of violence but a calculated strategy with specific political, ideological, or religious goals.

It has also become clear that terrorist organizations are constantly evolving and adapting their tactics to evade detection and carry out their attacks.

To effectively combat terrorism, it is essential to have a multi-faceted approach that includes intelligence gathering, law enforcement, and international cooperation.

Additionally, efforts must be made to address the root causes of terrorism, such as poverty, political oppression, and social inequality.

By understanding the complex nature of terrorist activities and taking proactive measures to prevent them, we can work towards a safer and more secure world.
July 15,2025
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Noam Chomsky's perspectives on the alternative actions that could have been taken in 2001 are highly significant. These views were gathered from interviews conducted in the month following the 9/11 attacks.

Chomsky's insights not only shed light on the missed opportunities in that fateful year but also offer a window into the broader context of what could have been achieved in the 1990s.

During the 1990s, there were numerous chances to address the underlying issues that led to the events of 9/11. However, these opportunities were unfortunately squandered.

By examining Chomsky's views, we can gain a better understanding of the complex web of factors that contributed to the events of 2001 and the potential paths that were not taken.

This analysis serves as a reminder of the importance of learning from the past and considering alternative approaches to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Overall, Chomsky's ideas provide a valuable framework for reflecting on our actions and decisions in the aftermath of 9/11 and the implications for our global society.
July 15,2025
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Pretty sound debate on the Twin Towers attack in the broader context of Terrorism.

It's a bit scattered as it's a selection of interview excerpts and so it doesn't really follow a narrative leading to a particular summary. However, all the points made are relevant.

Chomsky discusses the US government's role as the largest terrorist around the globe and the subsequent backlash of terrorism they received in turn.

It's an acknowledged but not necessarily well-known fact that the USA armed and trained many people they then went on to fight, from Saddam Hussein to Al-Qaida and the Taliban and now, as we know, ISIS.

The book is slightly out-of-date now because the real-life narrative of the 'War on Terror' and the situation in the Middle-East has now changed. Well, I say changed but the plot is basically the same old story of Western Imperialism creating its own enemies.

This debate offers valuable insights into the complex web of terrorism and the role of powerful nations. It makes us question the true motives and consequences of certain actions.

By examining the past and present, we can strive to understand the roots of terrorism and work towards a more peaceful and just world.

It's essential to have these discussions to raise awareness and promote critical thinking.

Only then can we hope to find sustainable solutions to the global issue of terrorism.
July 15,2025
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A collection of interviews with Chomsky after the attacks on 9/11 provides valuable insights. The over-riding message is that Chomsky advocates for the U.S. to adopt the approach of gathering evidence of criminality and presenting the findings to the World Court. Regrettably, the US, along with Israel, is the only nation to oppose such efforts and has chosen the vigilante path. This has led to the creation of martyrs and a new generation of “terrorists.” Another enlightening point Chomsky makes is that bin Laden is not concerned with world trade policies. In fact, he might struggle to locate Canada on a map. His sole objective is to drive the West out of the Middle East, and he is willing to employ extreme and terrifying means to achieve this. For further exploration of this topic, one can refer to “Western State Terrorism” by Alex George.

July 15,2025
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The information presented here is dated as the interviews were conducted shortly after September 11, 2001.

Nevertheless, it is fascinating to peruse it in light of the decade and more that has elapsed since then. Dr. Chomsky is remarkably articulate, concise, and fearless in his responses.

There is a great deal of truth within these pages that is extremely challenging for the average Westerner to come to terms with, perhaps even more so for an American.

I hold his opinions in high regard because he unfailingly (and I truly mean without exception) supports every comment with references.

So many pundits and so-called "news" writers simply toss out comments and statistics without ever providing the reader with verification for their viewpoints.

The reasons behind the occurrence of 9-11 are crystal clear in this book.

By reading this book, one can step into the shoes of the "rest of the world" and gain a different perspective.
July 15,2025
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Somehow, even after having read a significant amount of Chomsky's works, this particular book deviated from my initial expectations of him. I'm truly unsure as to the exact reason behind this disparity, and it has left me pondering for a while.

I believe the most prominent aspect that stood out was its calm tone. Perhaps, in my anticipation, I had envisioned it to be more filled with anger, yet it seemingly lacked that intense emotion. Instead, it presented a calm, rather melancholy, and highly reasoned discussion centered around the destruction of the Trade Towers.

Nonetheless, it was an excellent read. The depth of analysis and the thoughtful exploration of the topic made it a book that I will undoubtedly be revisiting. It offers a unique perspective that challenges one's preconceived notions and encourages a more in-depth understanding of the events and their implications.

Overall, despite not meeting my initial expectations in terms of tone, this book has proven to be a valuable addition to my reading collection and a source of inspiration for further reflection.
July 15,2025
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In the aftermath of the Paris terror attack on November 13, 2015, the international (primarily Western) media provided extensive coverage, and a large majority on social media sympathized with the French. Facebook even added the option to overlay profile pictures with the French flag and activated its "safety check" feature.

However, a vocal and opinionated minority expressed dissatisfaction with the limited attention given by the media and social media. They often cited the suicide bombing in Beirut that occurred just a day before, and how the silence on social media was deafening. There were no profile picture overlays or safety checks for Beirut. (In my case, being based in the Philippines, I frequently mentioned the brutal killings and displacement of our indigenous Lumads, which largely go unnoticed.)

What I found truly baffling was how some so-called intellectuals mocked or even dismissed the concerns of this minority as if they were not valid. Even up to now, the mockery persists, which I believe is aimed at highlighting the minority's "inconsistency."

I would, therefore, highly recommend this book as an introduction to understanding why the minority's reaction to the 2015 Paris terror attack should be the norm if we truly want to stop or perhaps minimize this cycle of violence.
July 15,2025
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A bit dated, by now. I'd really like to read Chomsky's thoughts at present, years after the initial publication, especially when new information has emerged. He probably still adheres to the same stance on the main points, though.


The book is composed of several interviews conducted by various reporters from around the world. As a result, there is no unified story, timeline, or anything of that sort. Chomsky offers his comments as topics come up. Due to this format, there is also a fair amount of repetition. He utilizes a significant number of facts (which should be common knowledge, at least in the US) to support his claims, but doesn't provide many references or cite other writers, as one might expect in an academic paper (which this isn't). However, now there is a sense of hearsay. But active readers (apparently not me) have the option to go online and verify the information. Oh, the wonderful world of the information highway...

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