Threats to Peace & the Planet
Why are so many people all over the world out in the streets demanding change? What are the root causes of revolt? What about U.S. Syria policy and the betrayal of the Kurds? And BDS and Palestine? How do we overcome sectarian differences? Why are Americans so afraid? Eco-disaster and nuclear war threaten human existence. The former garners some attention because of the surge in youth-led activism but the latter is out of sight even though the dangers are escalating. The U.S. pulling out of the INF ballistic missile treaty and new Pentagon hypersonic weapons increase the possibility of catastrophe. What about impeachment and the 2020 election? These are just some of the topics Noam Chomsky talks about in this exclusive two-part program. 2CDs.
Interviewed by David Barsamian.
Recorded at Pima Community College.
Speaker
Noam Chomsky
Noam Chomsky, by any measure, has led a most extraordinary life. In one index he is ranked as the eighth most cited person in history, right up there with Aristotle, Shakespeare, Marx, Plato and Freud. His contributions to modern linguistics are legendary. In addition to his pioneering work in that field, he has been a leading voice for peace and social justice for many decades. Chris Hedges says he is “America’s greatest intellectual” who “makes the powerful, as well as their liberal apologists, deeply uncomfortable.” The New Statesman calls him “the conscience of the American people.” He is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Linguistics and Philosophy at MIT and Laureate Professor of Linguistics and Haury Chair in the Program in Environment and Social Justice at the University of Arizona. At 95, he continues to inform and inspire people all over the world. He is the author of scores of books, his latest are Consequences of Capitalism, Chronicles of Dissent and Notes on Resistance.
Jerry in Tucson, AZ –
I had the good fortune to attend the interview/discussion with Noam Chomsky that The Progressive sponsored in November in Tucson, Arizona. The auditorium was nearly full with progressives! It was a refreshing evening with thoughtful and respectful discussion of many of our world’s political and cultural challenges. Thanks to The Progressive for bringing this presentation to Tucson.
Chomsky’s interviewer for the evening was David Barsamian, who did an excellent job of guiding the discussion. Barsamian’s interview with Chomsky, “Make Whatever Alliances You Can,” in the magazine’s December/January issue is a well-edited excerpt of a broad-reaching event that lasted over two hours. It’s not as good as having been there, but close.
Yasuo in Yokohama, Japan –
I am so glad to hear Chomsky’s views thanks to your relentless efforts.
David in Chicago –
I found the whole interview to be quite brilliant.
Liz Martin (verified owner) –
I heard Threats to Peace and the Planet on WYSO 91.3 FM during Alternative Radio’s regularly scheduled weekly airtime hour which is Saturdays at 6:00am EST.
It was the most compelling, thorough, and up-to-date Noam Chomsky talk I have heard to date. Not only does he explicitly state the stark (and sad) truth about US government and it’s poisonous malignancy to the world, he really emphasizes the critical need to focus on climate change. I could not agree more that the two worst and damaging things Trump has done were breaking the Iran nuclear weapons contract and withdrawing from the Paris Climate Accord. The human species should pay attention to these unfathomable threats and stop watching the circus go round and round.
Gregory Sandoval –
As always, Noam Chomsky gives an unparalleled insight into the current socioeconomic conditions of our country and the effects on the world and planet. It is an alarm we should heed and address. I am grateful for A.R. and Mr. Barsamian bringing us these critical discussions in a time of major crisis.
Jim Terr –
I have never heard Chomsky so lucid and accurate (in my opinion) about the political situation in the US and other topics. Also, I have never heard Chomsky so forgiving (as needed, in my opinion) on certain topics. Becoming less of an absolutist in his old age.
Majid Azzedine –
A lucid conversation and a warning to all who are complacent and assume reason prevails. Chomsky is one of those voices that warn us to the millions and the few whose hatred or greed or lust for power follow blindly or consciously their leader’s propaganda.