Linguist and political theorist Noam Chomsky doesn't seem to be slowing down much as he approaches the age of 90. In Global Discontents: Conversations on the Rising Threats to Democracy, a collection of interviews with journalist and frequent dialogue partner David Barsamian, Chomsky seems as lucid, energetic, and passionate as ever. The conversations range over an array of subjects, each one giving him a chance to show his impressive depth of knowledge and his commitment to a better world.
The interviews range from 2013, in the middle of Barack Obama's presidency, to 2017, with Donald Trump firmly ensconced in office. Chomsky certainly has opinions about the merits of each presidency, but is more concerned about the overall trajectory of U.S. diplomacy and power. Structures are more at play than people (though that hardly exculpates any of the particular people mentioned), and Chomsky is always underscoring that point in his positions.
The interview format works for some of these discussions. Barsamian has a habit of jumping around from subject to subject, asking Chomsky questions both about his early childhood and the state of global affairs. It keeps the conversation lively, but perhaps dulls the overall thrust of Global Discontent's aim to cajole and instigate. Still, reading the book is akin to spending quality informal time with one of the most powerful intellectuals of the 21st century, which is certainly worth it. --Noah Cruickshank, adult engagement manager, the Field Museum, Chicago, Ill.