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December 07, 2018

Noam Chomsky – Essential Reads

The “father of modern linguistics” turns 90!

Today cognitive scientist, political activist, and the “father of modern linguistics” Noam Chomsky celebrates his 90th year. We jumped at the chance to compile a reading list of his writings, not only because we have published him several times on topics ranging from anarchism to JFK, but also because Chomsky is integral to the history of Boston Review itself. 

In our Fall 2011 issue, editors-in-chief Joshua Cohen and Deb Chasman wrote: “When Josh first took on Boston Review in 1991, he was inspired by Chomsky’s important essay, ‘The Responsibility of Intellectuals.’ With no experience in magazine publishing, Josh had a vision that BR could be a place where reasoned argument could be brought to bear on the realities of politics and power, all in service of democracy’s promise.”

Almost thirty years later, we hope you agree that it is—and if so, consider making a donation to our end of year fundraising campaign. 

—Rosie Gillies 

On using privilege to challenge the state.

Noam Chomsky
Noam Chomsky and Scott Casleton discuss socialism, anarchism, and the fight for progress in U.S. politics today. 
Noam Chomsky, Scott Casleton

Theirs and ours.

Noam Chomsky

Are states moral agents?

Noam Chomsky
On the universals of language and rights.
Noam Chomsky

The Bush administration's imperial grand strategy.

Noam Chomsky
Noam Chomsky, James K. Galbraith

Our weekly themed Reading Lists compile the best of Boston Review’s archive. Sign up for our newsletters to get them straight to your inbox before they appear online.

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