[R]eligion was the race's first (and worst) attempt to…
![“[R]eligion was the race's first (and worst) attempt to make sense of reality. It was the best the species could do at a time when we had no concept of physics, chemistry, biology or medicine. We did not know that we lived on a round planet, let alone that the said planet was in orbit in a minor…” quote by Christopher Hitchens](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/15c/christopher-hitchens-117_digestive-system_r-eligion-was-the-race-s-first-and-worst_1384906.jpg)
““[R]eligion was the race's first (and worst) attempt to make sense of reality. It was the best the species could do at a time when we had no concept of physics, chemistry, biology or medicine. We did not know that we lived on a round planet, let alone that the said planet was in orbit in a minor and obscure solar system, which was also on the edge of an unimaginably vast cosmos that was exploding away from its original source of energy. We did not know that micro-organisms were so powerful and lived in our digestive systems in order to enable us to live, as well as mounting lethal attacks on us as parasites. We did not know of our close kinship with other animals. We believed that sprites, imps, demons, and djinns were hovering in the air about us. We imagined that thunder and lightning were portentous. It has taken us a long time to shrug off this heavy coat of ignorance and fear, and every time we do there are self-interested forces who want to compel us to put it back on again.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Religion arose as early humanity’s attempt to explain the world before science; it persists despite scientific progress, often reinforced by power interests.
In simple terms: Religion began as early explanations, now challenged by science.
Key Takeaway
Question beliefs and seek evidence.
Themes
science
religion
history
knowledge
power
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education reform
- public policy
- personal belief systems
- media literacy
Key Concepts
epistemology
skepticism
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance faith and reason?
- What role should religion play in modern society?
A Different Perspective
Religious belief can provide community and meaning beyond pure logic.