Interestingly, not every person in the democratic West is overjoyed at seeing Syrian fascism at last challenged. Noam Chomsky, the MIT inventor of now-discredited theories of linguistics, is determined to defend and perpetuate Syrian colonization of Lebanon, no matter how many Lebanese lives it costs. His reason? He insists Syrian occupation of Lebanon is necessary as a way to prevent those evil Israelis from doing horrid deeds in Lebanon, like attempting to protect their citizens from terrorist attacks launched out of Lebanon. --Steven Plaut, March 7, 2005 [250]
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The quote claims some in the democratic West oppose challenging Syrian influence in Lebanon, citing Chomsky as supporting it to counter Israeli actions.
- In plain terms
- Some people support Syrian control in Lebanon to stop Israel, even if it costs lives.
- What can you take from it?
- Geopolitical alliances often prioritize regional balance over human rights.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you weigh regional stability against human rights?
- What defines a just foreign policy?
Another view
The quote attributes specific motivations to Chomsky without citing his direct statements.
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