Skip to content

That sort of thing doesn't happen any more," reiterated…

“That sort of thing doesn't happen any more," reiterated Wensley­dale, the rational thinking person. "'Cos we invented Science and all the vicars set fire to the witches for their own good. It was called the Spanish Inquisition.” quote by Neil Gaiman
Download Open image
““That sort of thing doesn't happen any more," reiterated Wensley­dale, the rational thinking person. "'Cos we invented Science and all the vicars set fire to the witches for their own good. It was called the Spanish Inquisition.””

Neil Gaiman

About This Quote

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

The narrator critiques rationalism that dismisses superstition, noting that scientific progress historically coexisted with irrational practices like the Spanish Inquisition.

In simple terms: Rationalism ignores past irrationalities.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the limits of pure rationality.

Themes

history science irrationality

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical historical

When to use this quote

  • academic discussions
  • debates on science vs belief
  • writing essays
  • teaching history
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

skepticism cultural critique paradox

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can rational thought coexist with myth?
  • What role does irrationality play in societal progress?
A Different Perspective

Rationalism can overlook valuable intuition and cultural context.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Neil Gaiman

Explore all 2,526 Neil Gaiman quotes

More Inquisition quotes

Browse all 164 Inquisition quotes