Political theorist and linguistics mastermind, Noam Chomsky visited the Commonwealth Club of California on Oct. 6, offering a thought-provoking hour on contemporary politics.

"Studying human beings is complex -- the nature of studying insects is hard but humans are extremely complex," said Chomsky, 80, his velvety voice resonating across a room wrapped in silence.

The MIT linguistics professor famously known for his work in philosophy, political activism and countless published books, sat back in his chair and with his gray hair coiffed back, looked to the audience from behind his glasses and shared his knowledge -- cracking a smile every once in a while.

"We tried to get him for a while and we couldn't get him," said Camille Koué, 23, program coordinator for the Commonwealth. "He's a very well known professor on linguistics and politics -- [he] would be a big draw in the area."

Touching on everything from science and technology to the war in Iraq, Chomsky and his ideas piqued the attention of locals, drawing a crowd of 400 people.

"I came out because when I was an undergrad, he came to my campus and a bunch of my friends had tickets but I couldn't go -- he's always had a bit of a mystique," said Margaret Boehme, 26, an attendee who watched Chomsky speak for the first time.

The first half hour consisted mainly of Chomsky's outlook on contemporary politics and discussion on national foreign involvement. He frequently compared and contrasted today with the 1960s, suggesting that the similarities of the Vietnam War and the War in Iraq need to be recognized.

He also touched on how the 2008 presidential election was unthinkable during that time, saying, "40 years ago it would have been unimaginable that there could have been two candidates: a woman and an African-American."

Following Chomsky's commentary on national politics, he offered a Q-and-A with the audience. Attendees were given the opportunity to ask Chomsky any question they wished by filling out a question card.

Chosen by the event host, the questions centered predominately on global concerns such as environmental degradation, planet warming and population control. Chomsky tackled each issue by suggesting a more informed consumer in the marketplace and increasing sex-education as solutions.

"It wasn't dramatically eye-opening but it was nice to hear his voice," said Justin Ho, 28, an attendee and fan of Chomsky. "It was more a matter of paying respects -- my own philosophy is very much in tune with what he said."

The Commonwealth Club of California hosts many notable speakers throughout the month in many Bay Area locations. For a calendar and full listing of events, visit their website at http://tickets.commonwealthclub.org.