Skip to content

Why is it that the less intelligence people have, the more…

“Why is it that the less intelligence people have, the more spiritual they are? They seem to fill all the vacant, ignorant spaces in their heads with soul. Which explains how it is that the less knowledge they have, the more religion.” quote by Lincoln Steffens
Download Open image
“Why is it that the less intelligence people have, the more spiritual they are? They seem to fill all the vacant, ignorant spaces in their heads with soul. Which explains how it is that the less knowledge they have, the more religion.”

Lincoln Steffens

About This Quote

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

Intelligence and spirituality are portrayed as inversely related, suggesting ignorance fuels religious belief.

In simple terms: Less knowledge leads to more faith.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions about intelligence and belief.

Themes

intelligence spirituality religion ignorance

Mood

skeptical inquisitive

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • debates on science vs religion
  • education policy
  • personal belief formation

Key Concepts

cognitive bias social identity faith rationalization

Questions to Reflect On

  • Does lack of knowledge cause faith, or does faith fill a need for meaning?
  • How do societal narratives shape the link between intellect and religion?
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Lincoln Steffens

Explore all 63 Lincoln Steffens quotes

More Atheism quotes

Browse all 4,769 Atheism quotes