In a conversation with theoretical physicist and cosmologist Lawrence Krauss, Noam Chomsky explains why American exceptionalism is neither unique nor founded on truth. The renowned linguist goes on to discuss how, despite the fact that many are under the illusion that United States interventionist attitudes abroad are altruistic, the country’s foreign policy only benefits the most powerful Americans, among other important topics.

Watch the two-part dialogue, which forms part of Arizona State University’s Origins Project, below.