Bin Laden as Person and Symbol

Traces how bin Laden moves in Chomsky’s account from a militant organizer to a contested emblem capable of drawing support beyond his organization.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Joining the Afghan Network

Joining the Afghan Network Bin Laden joins the foreign-backed militant forces assembled for the war against Soviet troops. A Wider Structure Chomsky emphasizes that the network’s origins involve many governments and recruits, not one man alone. A Lasting Connection The organization and financing developed in this period remain relevant after the original war ends.

A Public Grievance

A Public Grievance Bin Laden frames American military presence in Saudi Arabia as occupation and condemns support for regional governments. Regional Resonance His arguments also invoke Iraq and Palestinian suffering, concerns shared by people who do not support his methods. Political Power A real grievance can give a violent leader an audience without making his actions legitimate.

The Network’s Ambiguity

The Network’s Ambiguity Chomsky cautions that bin Laden’s direct role in planning the September attacks is uncertain. Decentralized Operations A loose network may make decisions without a simple hierarchy or reliable communication with its public figurehead. Distinguishing Claims The uncertainty around command does not lessen the need to identify perpetrators through credible evidence.

A Potential Martyr

A Potential Martyr Chomsky warns that killing bin Laden without credible proof could strengthen his symbolic influence. Death and Legend A leader silenced physically may continue to speak through recordings and remembered arguments. Strategic Backfire Retaliatory violence could turn condemnation of his crimes into sympathy for his cause.

The Symbolic Enemy

The Symbolic Enemy Chomsky argues that focusing on bin Laden as the embodiment of evil can distract from the networks and conditions behind the attacks. Personalization A single villain offers a simpler story than examining state policy, organizational history, and political grievance. A Broader Inquiry Understanding the symbol’s appeal is important to reducing the violence that helps sustain it.

During the 1980s

After American troops are stationed in Saudi Arabia

September 2001

September and October 2001

In the postface, several months after September 11