"I explain this not for publicity, nor seeking to win an argument of right or wrong, I explain so that the record is clear as to my thinking and motivations in bombing a government installation"

The quote credited to Timothy McVeigh provides insight into his rationale and motivations behind his criminal actions, especially the 1995 Oklahoma City battle. McVeigh attempts to clarify that his explanation is not driven by a desire for publicity or a pursuit to validate his actions in terms of a moral or ethical debate about right and wrong. Rather, he is concentrated on ensuring that his thought process and motivations are comprehended plainly, particularly concerning why he targeted a federal government setup.

To start with, McVeigh's mention of "promotion" recommends an awareness of the media attention surrounding his case. By specifying that he is not making his explanation for publicity, he shows that his actions are not meant to garner individual fame or infamy. This could be interpreted as a claim that his intentions are much deeper and more ideologically driven instead of superficially looking for attention.

Secondly, by mentioning that he is not trying to "win an argument of right or wrong", McVeigh may be acknowledging the complexity and moral ambiguity of his actions. This recommends an understanding that his actions would be viewed as wrong by predominant societal requirements which his goal is not to encourage others of his moral position or to declare ethical superiority.

The phrase "I explain so that the record is clear" is important as it identifies his primary goal in clarifying his objectives. McVeigh seems interested in his historical tradition, making sure that, regardless of popular opinion, the thinking behind his attack is recorded precisely. This points to a fixation with how future generations or historians might analyze his motivations-- seeking to manage the story surrounding his actions to enshrine his individual viewpoint within the historical discourse on domestic terrorism.

By targeting a "federal government setup", McVeigh restates the political context of his actions, framing them as a protest or rebellion versus a governmental body rather than a random act of violence. This enhances his desire to be seen as acting out of political conviction rather than personal vendetta or nonsensical violence.