Edward S. Herman is an academic specialising in finance who has written many works on political economy and the media.
Noam Chomsky is a world-renowned expert in the fields of linguistics and global political culture. He is best known for his criticisms of globalisation, American power and the mass media. He has authored numerous publications including Hegemony or Survival and Deterring Democracy.
Manufacturing Consent (1988) takes a critical view of the mass media to ask why only a narrow range of opinions are favored whilst others are suppressed or ignored.
It formulates a propaganda model which shows how alternative and independent information is filtered out by various financial and political factors allowing the news agenda to be dominated by those working on behalf of the wealthy and powerful. Far from being a free press, the media in fact maintain our unequal and unfair society.
In Failed States, author Noam Chomsky details the ways in which the United States has used its power to relentlessly pursue its own geopolitical and economic interests. The book cites examples from throughout history to demonstrate why the United States’ stated goal of promoting democracy is inconsistent with its own actions, at home and abroad.
Profit Over People (1999) is a deep dive into the often hidden world of neoliberalism, revealing how global power structures and US policies are influenced by corporate interests. You’ll be taken on a journey that uncovers an economic system geared toward the affluent, often to the detriment of the many.
Understanding Power (2002) is a compilation of discussions and seminars by Noam Chomsky curated by Peter R. Mitchell and John Schoeffel. Throughout this collection, Chomsky delves into a wide range of topics, primarily focusing on how power and politics shape societies – critiquing media, corporate power, and governmental control, all while examining how these forces influence public opinion, policy, and democracy. With a focus on America, it reinterprets events of the past concerning foreign and social policy, highlighting the many challenges that Americans continue to face.
Hegemony or Survival by Noam Chomsky explores the concept of hegemony and its impact on global politics. Chomsky argues that the United States has pursued a policy of maintaining its hegemonic power through military and economic means, often at the expense of other nations and the well-being of their citizens. He also examines the potential for survival in a world dominated by a single superpower.
Language and Mind by Noam Chomsky explores the relationship between language and the human mind. Chomsky delves into the innate structures of the mind that enable us to learn and use language, challenging traditional theories and offering groundbreaking insights into the nature of human communication.
Individuals interested in understanding the relationship between language and human cognition
Students and scholars in the fields of linguistics, psychology, and cognitive science
Readers looking for a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of language and its impact on the mind
Syntactic Structures is a groundbreaking book by Noam Chomsky that revolutionized the field of linguistics. Published in 1957, it introduces Chomsky's theory of transformational grammar and argues that the structure of sentences can be described by a set of rules. This influential work laid the foundation for the study of syntax and has had a lasting impact on our understanding of language.
Students and academics studying linguistics or language theory
Professionals in the fields of computational linguistics or natural language processing
Readers interested in Noam Chomsky's influential theories on language and cognition
Aspects of the Theory of Syntax is a groundbreaking book by Noam Chomsky that revolutionized the study of language. Published in 1965, it presents Chomsky's influential theory of generative grammar, which argues that the structure of language is innate to humans and can be understood through a set of universal principles. This book has had a profound impact on linguistics and cognitive science, shaping our understanding of how language is acquired and processed.
Students and scholars of linguistics who want to deepen their understanding of syntax
Language enthusiasts who are curious about the underlying principles of grammar
Professionals in fields such as computational linguistics or natural language processing
Global Discontents by Noam Chomsky offers a thought-provoking analysis of the current state of global affairs. Chomsky delves into the root causes of discontent and unrest around the world, examining issues such as economic inequality, political corruption, and the impact of corporate power. Through insightful discussions, he challenges readers to question the status quo and consider alternative paths towards a more just and peaceful future.
Readers who are curious about the root causes of global discontent
Individuals interested in understanding the impact of political and economic systems on society
Those who want to explore alternative perspectives on international affairs and social justice
Media Control by Noam Chomsky explores the ways in which mass media is used to shape public opinion and manipulate information. Chomsky argues that the concentration of media ownership and the influence of powerful elites result in a narrow range of perspectives being presented to the public. He also discusses the role of advertising and public relations in shaping the content and priorities of the media. Ultimately, the book raises important questions about the potential consequences of media control for democracy and informed decision-making.
Readers who are interested in understanding the manipulation of media and its impact on society
Individuals who want to critically analyze the information they consume and the agendas behind it
Those who seek to broaden their perspective on the role of media in shaping public opinion
Necessary Illusions by Noam Chomsky challenges the idea that the media is an independent and objective institution. Chomsky argues that the media serves the interests of powerful elites and creates illusions that are necessary for maintaining the existing social, economic, and political order. Through thought-provoking analysis, the book sheds light on the hidden mechanisms behind media manipulation and encourages readers to question the information they receive.
Individuals who are interested in understanding the role of media in shaping public opinion
Readers who want to critically analyze the information they consume and the narratives presented to them
People who are curious about the mechanisms of propaganda and manipulation in modern society