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A great swindle of our time is the assumption that science…

“A great swindle of our time is the assumption that science has made religion obsolete. All science has damaged is the story of Adam and Eve and the story of Jonah and the Whale. Everything else holds up pretty well, particularly lessons about fairness and gentleness. People who find those lessons…” quote by Kurt Vonnegut
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“A great swindle of our time is the assumption that science has made religion obsolete. All science has damaged is the story of Adam and Eve and the story of Jonah and the Whale. Everything else holds up pretty well, particularly lessons about fairness and gentleness. People who find those lessons irrelevant in the twentieth century are simply using science as an excuse for greed and harshness. Science has nothing to do with it, friends.”

Kurt Vonnegut

About This Quote

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

Science and religion address different aspects of human experience; one does not invalidate the other.

In simple terms: Science and religion can coexist.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the limits of science in moral matters.

Themes

ethics religion science human nature

Mood

thoughtful critical inquisitive

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • personal decision
  • public policy
  • education
  • community building

Key Concepts

moral philosophy epistemology cultural critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance scientific reasoning with moral teachings?
  • What role should religion play in modern ethics?
A Different Perspective

Science cannot dictate moral values; cultural and religious traditions also shape ethics.

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