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We are not a religious people, but we are a nation of…

“We are not a religious people, but we are a nation of politicians. We do not care for the Bible, but we do care for the newspaper.At any meeting of politicianshow impertinent it would be to quote from the Bible! how pertinent to quote from a newspaper or from the Constitution!” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“We are not a religious people, but we are a nation of politicians. We do not care for the Bible, but we do care for the newspaper.At any meeting of politicianshow impertinent it would be to quote from the Bible! how pertinent to quote from a newspaper or from the Constitution!”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

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

He contrasts religious reverence with political pragmatism, suggesting society values media and law over sacred texts.

In simple terms: People prioritize politics and media over religion.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the influence of political discourse on values.

Themes

politics media religion societal values

Mood

critical reflective

Type

observational analytical

When to use this quote

  • election campaigns
  • public debates
  • media analysis
  • civic education

Key Concepts

secularism public opinion institutional authority

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does media shape your civic beliefs?
  • What role should religion play in public life?
A Different Perspective

May overlook moral depth that religion can provide.

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