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Now, I don't believe that a god exists. I think that gods…

“Now, I don't believe that a god exists. I think that gods are creation of men, by men, and for men. What has happened over the many centuries now, the better part of two thousand in fact, is that God has been slowly and steadily accruing power. His church has been accruing power, and the men who…” quote by Clive Barker
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““Now, I don't believe that a god exists. I think that gods are creation of men, by men, and for men. What has happened over the many centuries now, the better part of two thousand in fact, is that God has been slowly and steadily accruing power. His church has been accruing power, and the men who run that church, and they are all men, are not about to give it up. If they give it up, they give up luxury, they give up comfort.””

Clive Barker

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Power structures in religion can become self‑preserving, resisting change.

In simple terms: Religion can become a power grab.

Key Takeaway

Question institutional authority.

Themes

religion power institutional critique human nature

Mood

skeptical critical

Type

philosophical controversial

When to use this quote

  • church leadership
  • public policy
  • personal belief
  • social movements

Key Concepts

theology sociology political science

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence supports this view?
  • How can reform be pursued without dismissing faith?
A Different Perspective

Critique may generalize all faiths.

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