What the World Is Like: Who Knows It – and Why (1983)

Noam Chomsky discusses the concept of "common sense" in the context of societal engagement and the obfuscation of reality by professional ideologists. He argues that while people demonstrate significant analytical skills in areas like sports, they often lack the same depth of understanding in critical issues such as international affairs. Chomsky suggests that this disparity arises from a sense of powerlessness in influencing real-world events, leading individuals to focus on less meaningful topics. He emphasizes that many complex issues can be understood without specialized knowledge, advocating for a more engaged public discourse on matters that affect human life. Chomsky critiques the mainstream media and intellectual elite for perpetuating shallow narratives, particularly regarding U.S. foreign policy, which he believes are often accepted without scrutiny. He posits that the intellectual elite may be more indoctrinated than the general public, as they are tasked with maintaining the prevailing ideologies. Chomsky concludes that the skills and intelligence people possess can be redirected towards understanding and addressing significant societal issues if they are encouraged to do so.

- Chomsky highlights the disparity in public engagement between sports and serious political issues.

- He argues that many complex societal issues can be understood without specialized knowledge.

- The mainstream media and intellectual elite often perpetuate shallow narratives about U.S. foreign policy.

- Chomsky suggests that public discourse could improve if people applied their analytical skills to important issues.

- He critiques the indoctrination of the intellectual elite, who may be more invested in maintaining prevailing ideologies.