Built Quote by Richard A. Falk
“So far, the official definitions of terrorism have the role of demonizing the enemies of the United States and Israel, and of sanitizing recourse to indiscriminate force by both governments that causes widespread death of innocent civilians. This double standard is built around the current way in which the vocabulary of terrorism is being used in this country.”
About This Quote
Source Article: “The Terrorism Double Standard” by Richard A. Falk, 2005
The term “terrorism” is applied selectively to vilify opponents of the US and Israel while excusing similar violence by those governments, creating a biased moral narrative.
In simple terms: Labels are used to blame some and excuse others.
Key Takeaway
Question language and demand consistent standards.
Themes
politics
ethics
media
human rights
law
Mood
critical
concerned
analytical
Type
statement
opinion
analysis
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- human rights advocacy
- media criticism
- academic debate
Key Concepts
double standards
propaganda
state violence
moral relativism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does selective labeling affect public perception?
- What criteria should define terrorism universally?
A Different Perspective
The definition often ignores context and can be weaponized against dissent.
