▲ One of the most influential people in the world, Noam Chomsky. Provided by centreforngos.org.uk

“A critical intellect that brings about change.” This is how many people describe Noam Chomsky, certainly one of the most influential people in the world. It is undeniable that every hidden truth that Chomsky uncovers brings a big wave of global influence. Once again, Chomsky surprises readers with a handful of truths that remained hidden for so long in Chomsky, Who Dominates the World with What (2002).

Noam Chomsky, often nick- named “America’s Conscience,” is a linguist and Professor of Linguistics at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Although he is very scholarly and renowned in his field, he does not stop there. Not only does he conduct studies in philosophy, psychology, politics, and economics, he has also been fervent all his life to divulge hidden truths around the world.

Published in 2002, Chomsky, Who Dominates the World with What is a book that depicts the recorded script of a two hour long talk between two French reporters, Weronika Zarachowicz and Denis Robert. Although two hours is short, the three engage in talks that are wide and deep.

The topics they discuss range from the hard core fundamentals such as capitalism and democracy, to the denouncement of the United States’ (U.S.) distortion of truth and the mass media of today. By reading the conversation, readers can understand the world Chomsky dreams of. He does this by probing what he thinks is the truth— something that has been hidden from people’s eyes for so long.

The biggest lesson Chomsky teaches readers is to not straightforwardly believe preexisting ideas and values, and to not completely trust people who do not put their money where their mouths are. “Everyone needs a thought of their own. If people grow the courage to try to figure out the truth by themselves, I believe that I can be said to have succeeded,” Chomsky says.

Another lesson Chomsky teaches people is not to be afraid of repeatedly voicing their own ideas and opinions they have built up. As the two reporters question him about some sensitive problems that may provoke a heated controversy, readers cannot help but be surprised at just how unhindered Chomsky is of expressing his own ideas.

Chomsky is a man who does not feel intimidated at the gossip or social biases that may act as a scarlet letter. He stands up for what he believes and is open to criticism. Chomsky’s dignified attitude and state of mind sways people to do the same—to think and spit the thought out.

What makes this book attractive is that, because it has a conversational tone, readers can feel as if they are actually there on the spot as part of the conversation. In addition, the comical illustrations that appear every one to two pages that are related to Chomsky’s opinions are another charming point. Although the bundle of truth Chomsky unveils may be difficult to understand at a glance, his vivid tone that permeate the writing and the pictures next to the text hooks readers deeper and deeper into his thoughts.

Chomsky, Who Dominates the World with What is not a book that intends to amaze readers with how smart Chomsky is. Instead it aims to enlighten people, make them attempt to penetrate through all the lies, and reach out for the truth. Think. Spit the thought out. Be like Chomsky.