Chomsky-Epstein ties deeper than known, documents reveal – Firstpost

Newly released emails and documents reveal that renowned linguist and philosopher Noam Chomsky maintained a far closer and regular relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein than previously reported, with contact continuing for years after Epstein was convicted of soliciting prostitution from a minor in 2008.

Documents declassified by US lawmakers earlier this month also include a letter from Chomsky in which he described discussions with the disgraced financier as “the most valuable experience”. This revelation complicates Chomsky’s previous claims that his relationship with Epstein was limited to occasional academic or political discussions.

Letters of Support and Financial Links

The most significant document released is an undated letter of support, written “To whom it may concern” and bearing Chomsky’s typed signature, citing his position at the University of Arizona. In the letter, Chomsky said that he and Epstein had been in “regular contact” since they first met, with “many long and often intense discussions”.

The philosopher praised Epstein for his “boundless curiosity, broad knowledge, penetrating insight, and thoughtful assessment”, and even credited Epstein with teaching about “the complexities of the global financial system” in a way professional journals could not.

Additionally, reports indicate that Chomsky admitted receiving approximately $270,000 from an account linked to Epstein while managing the finances of his first marriage. Chomsky has insisted that “not a single penny” came directly from Epstein, but the transaction still links the academic to the financier’s class.

Offers of residence and continued friendship

The correspondence also points to a more personal relationship, including a 2015 email in which Epstein offered Chomsky the use of his luxurious residences in New York and New Mexico.

In a separate 2017 email, Chomsky’s wife, Valeria Wasserman Chomsky, apologized to Epstein for not celebrating his birthday, saying, “Noam and I hope to meet again soon and have a toast to your birthday.” This communication occurred nearly a decade after Epstein’s conviction, underscoring the duration of the relationship.

The documents were part of a broader release detailing Epstein’s extensive network among the academic, political and business elite, which has already prompted consequences for other high-profile figures. Former Harvard University President Larry Summers recently left a teaching role after his email exchanges with Epstein were revealed.

These revelations come as pressure is increasing on authorities to release more files related to Epstein’s case. Neither Chomsky, who was reported to have recovered from a stroke in 2024, nor the University of Arizona immediately responded to requests for comment.