It is people who are violent, rather than "religions"; and…
“It is people who are violent, rather than "religions"; and since we secularised our politics we have had two major world wars, the Holocaust, the Soviet Gulag, and the atomic attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki - none of which were inspired by religion. If we want to understand the dangers of our world, we can no longer accept the old received ideas.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Violence stems from human actions, not religions; secular politics have led to major wars and atrocities, showing the need to reject outdated ideas.
In simple terms: Violence is human, not religious; old ideas must be questioned.
Key Takeaway
Question inherited beliefs and seek humane solutions.
Themes
violence
politics
history
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- education
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
sociology
ethics
religion
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions about religion influence your view?
- How can societies prevent violence?
A Different Perspective
Complex causes beyond religion exist.