Skip to content

But I am mistaken in speaking of a Christian republic; the…

“But I am mistaken in speaking of a Christian republic; the terms are mutually exclusive. Christianity preaches only servitude and dependence. Its spirit is so favorable to tyranny that it always profits by such a regime. True Christians are made to be slaves, and they know it and do not much mind…” quote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Download Open image
“But I am mistaken in speaking of a Christian republic; the terms are mutually exclusive. Christianity preaches only servitude and dependence. Its spirit is so favorable to tyranny that it always profits by such a regime. True Christians are made to be slaves, and they know it and do not much mind; this short life counts for too little in their eyes.”

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

About This Quote

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

The author argues that a Christian republic is contradictory because Christianity promotes servitude, which aligns with tyranny, making true Christians complacent slaves.

In simple terms: Christianity seen as supporting tyranny and slavery.

Key Takeaway

Question the role of religion in governance.

Themes

politics religion freedom

Mood

critical skeptical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • government formation
  • religious influence
  • civil rights debates

Key Concepts

authoritarianism moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can religious values coexist with liberty?
  • What alternative moral frameworks support freedom?
A Different Perspective

Overlooks positive moral teachings of Christianity.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Explore all 518 Jean-Jacques Rousseau quotes

More Be a slave quotes

Browse all 130 Be a slave quotes