Noam Chomsky's quote highlights a debate regarding the sources of knowledge we should rely on for understanding human values and social theories. He questions whether it is more absurd to seek insights from social theorists, who may provide well-established, empirical propositions, or to turn to religious and philosophical scholars, who can offer deeper perspectives on fundamental human values.

This statement reflects Chomsky's exploration of the reliability of different intellectual traditions. He seems to suggest a tension between empirical knowledge and philosophical insight, inviting readers to consider where they believe the most valuable understandings of human life can be found.