It's only terrorism if they do it to us. When we do much worse to them, it's not terrorism

It's only terrorism if they do it to us. When we do much worse to them, it's not terrorism

Noam Chomsky, a renowned linguist, philosopher, and political activist, has long been a vocal critic of the double standards and hypocrisy that often characterize discussions of terrorism. The statement, "It's only terrorism if they do it to us. When we do much worse to them, it's not terrorism," encapsulates Chomsky's perspective on the issue.

Chomsky argues that the term "terrorism" is often used selectively to demonize and delegitimize the actions of certain groups or individuals, while ignoring or justifying similar acts committed by more powerful actors. This asymmetrical application of the term serves to perpetuate a narrative that justifies violence and oppression when carried out by states or other dominant actors, while condemning the same actions when carried out by marginalized or oppressed groups.

Chomsky points to numerous examples of this double standard in practice. For instance, the United States has been quick to label attacks by groups like Al-Qaeda or ISIS as terrorism, while downplaying or justifying its own acts of violence and aggression in the name of national security. The use of drone strikes, targeted assassinations, and military interventions in countries like Iraq, Afghanistan, and Yemen are often framed as necessary measures to combat terrorism, even as they result in the deaths of innocent civilians and the destabilization of entire regions.

Chomsky also highlights the role of the media in perpetuating this double standard. Mainstream media outlets often uncritically parrot the official narratives of governments and powerful interests, framing acts of violence by marginalized groups as terrorism while downplaying or ignoring the violence perpetrated by states. This biased framing serves to reinforce existing power structures and perpetuate a cycle of violence and oppression.