“In this possibly terminal phase of human existence, democracy and freedom are more than just ideals to be valued - they may be essential to survival.”
— Noam Chomsky
Simplified Meaning:
Right now, humanity could be facing really tough times or big challenges that might threaten our future. In such times, democracy and freedom aren't just nice things to have; they might be crucial for our survival. Think of democracy and freedom like clean water and fresh air—if we want to keep living and thriving, we need them. For example, during World War II, many countries fought hard to protect their freedom and democratic ways of life against dictatorships and oppressive regimes. These values gave people the strength and unity needed to face and overcome massive challenges. Similarly, today, allowing everyone to have a voice and protecting people's rights can help us work together, share ideas, and find solutions to big problems like climate change or pandemics. By valuing and safeguarding democracy and freedom, we give ourselves the best chance to navigate difficult times and build a better future.