Owing to the identification of religion with virtue…
“Owing to the identification of religion with virtue, together with the fact that the most religious men are not the most intelligent, a religious education gives courage to the stupid to resist the authority of educated men, as has happened, for example, where the teaching of evolution has been made illegal. So far as I can remember, there is not one word in the Gospels in praise of intelligence; and in this respect ministers of religion follow gospel authority more closely than in some others.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Religion can be used to empower those lacking critical thinking, allowing them to challenge educated authority, exemplified by anti‑evolution laws.
In simple terms: Religion can give courage to the unintelligent to oppose educated people.
Key Takeaway
Beware of using faith to undermine reason.
Themes
religion
education
authority
intelligence
politics
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- school curricula
- public policy
- activism
Key Concepts
social control
cognitive bias
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does faith influence political decisions?
- Can religion coexist with scientific education?
A Different Perspective
Faith may also inspire genuine moral insight, not just opposition.