If a man happen to take it into his head to assassinate…
““If a man happen to take it into his head to assassinate with his own hands, or with the sword of justice, those whom he calls heretics, that is, people who think, or perhaps only speak, differently upon a subject which neither party understands, he will be as much inclined to do this at one time as at another. Fanaticism never sleeps: it is never glutted: it is never stopped by philanthropy; for it makes a merit of trampling on philanthropy: it is never stopped by conscience; for it has pressed conscience into its service. Avarice, lust, and vengeance, have piety, benevolence, honour; fanaticism has nothing to oppose it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage condemns fanaticism, noting it persists despite moral appeals and can co‑opt virtues.
In simple terms: Fanaticism never stops, even with good intentions.
Key Takeaway
Beware of extreme zeal.
Themes
extremism
morality
politics
Mood
critical
cautious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political activism
- religious movements
- social reforms
- ideological debates
Key Concepts
fanaticism
conscience
philanthropy
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives people to fanaticism?
- How can societies counter it?
A Different Perspective
Extremism can be rationalized by its followers.