But the child grows up, and reaches adolescence. He stands…
““But the child grows up, and reaches adolescence. He stands on the threshold of life, and the school-bench is left behind him. School has taught him but little—a few facts and some elementary information. But he has learnt to reason logically, and to examine the solid foundations on which the world rests. He begins to apply his logic to everything, and when he approaches religion, doubt trembles in his soul. The absurd improbability of the legends of the Middle Ages disgusts him, and at the same time he is obsessed by the fear of remaining without a relegion, a fear which has been inculcated into his mind by his entire upbringing. Calm and cold-blooded people think it all out, and become confirmed Atheists. Not so, however, those others with fervent, burning souls!””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Adolescence brings logical reasoning that challenges inherited religious beliefs, creating tension between doubt and fear of atheism.
In simple terms: Teenagers start questioning faith using logic, feeling fear of being without religion.
Key Takeaway
Embrace critical thinking while acknowledging emotional roots of belief.
Themes
faith
reason
adolescence
identity
fear
Mood
conflicted
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
personal
When to use this quote
- school transition
- religious questioning
- personal identity formation
- family influence
Key Concepts
existential doubt
cognitive dissonance
cultural conditioning
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one balance rational doubt with emotional need for meaning?
- What role does upbringing play in shaping belief?
A Different Perspective
Logical reasoning may not fully address emotional and cultural aspects of faith.