Attacking Quote by John Pilger
“In the sublime days before 11 September 2001, when the powerful were routinely attacking and terrorising the weak, and those dying were black or brown-skinned non-people living in faraway places such as Zaire and Guatemala, there was no terrorism. When the weak attacked the powerful, spectacularly on 9/11, there was terrorism.”
About This Quote
The quote critiques double standards in labeling terrorism, highlighting how power dynamics influence the definition of violent acts.
In simple terms: Power decides who is labeled terrorist.
Key Takeaway
Question who defines terrorism.
Themes
politics
media bias
terrorism
power dynamics
Mood
critical
serious
Type
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- news analysis
- policy debate
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
propaganda
ethical relativism
Questions to Reflect On
- Who benefits from labeling certain groups as terrorists?
- How can media present a balanced view?
A Different Perspective
Complex geopolitics can oversimplify motives.
