Fortunately, there are old terrors and powers that…
“Fortunately, there are old terrors and powers that religion no longer can exercise so effectively as it did only a few score years ago. But the atmosphere and the attitude of bigotry remain. If religion cannot ordinarily invoke the armed force of law to punish heretics, it still plays upon the psychology of fear and predominantly its influence is to frighten men and distort their views and poison every process of their reasoning.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Religion’s overt power has waned, but it still manipulates fear and distorts reasoning.
In simple terms: Religion still spreads fear despite less power.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge fear‑based arguments.
Themes
religion
fear
logic
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
skeptical
When to use this quote
- political debate
- media analysis
- education
Key Concepts
psychology of belief
social control
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you identify fear‑based rhetoric?
- What alternatives promote rational discourse?
A Different Perspective
Religious influence can be subtle and pervasive.