Dissidents Quote by Noam Chomsky
“To use the terms that are reserved for official enemies, it is the commissars and apparatchiks, not the dissidents, who are respected and privileged within their own societies.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Media and Power, 1989
Those in power label dissenters as enemies, while the true oppressors enjoy respect and privilege.
In simple terms: Powerful groups label dissent as enemy, protecting themselves.
Recognize who truly holds power and privilege.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- journalism
- activism
- policy analysis
- education curricula
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Who benefits from labeling dissent as dangerous?
- How does language shape perception of authority?
The narrative can obscure the real sources of oppression.