Genocide Quote by Noam Chomsky
““Genocide" is an invidious word that officials apply readily to cases of victimization in enemy states, but rarely if ever to similar or worse cases of victimization by the United States itself or allied regimes.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Lecture on political language, 1995
The term “genocide” is applied selectively, often to enemies, rarely to similar acts by the U.S. or allies.
In simple terms: “Genocide” is used inconsistently, favoring political narratives.
Key Takeaway
Critically assess language used in political discourse.
Themes
politics
language
ethics
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- policy analysis
- media criticism
Key Concepts
double standard
propaganda
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria should define genocide?
- How does selective labeling affect justice?
A Different Perspective
Accusations may be contested; context matters.
![“I wrote an article about the marine landing [in Haiti] right away, but barely mentioned the oil, because my article would come out two months later and I assumed by then, "of course, everybody knows." Nobody knew. There was a news report in the Wall Street Journal, in the petroleum journals, and…” quote by Noam Chomsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dc5/noam-chomsky-42_articles_i-wrote-an-article-about-the-marine-land_13341.jpg)
