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Rationalism and sectarism then are the most dangerous…

“Rationalism and sectarism then are the most dangerous enemies of our church at the present time. They are both but different sides of the one and the same principle—a one-sided false subjectivity, sundered from the authority of the objective. Rationalism is theoretic sectarism; sectarism is…” quote by R. Scott Clark
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““Rationalism and sectarism then are the most dangerous enemies of our church at the present time. They are both but different sides of the one and the same principle—a one-sided false subjectivity, sundered from the authority of the objective. Rationalism is theoretic sectarism; sectarism is practical rationalism.””

R. Scott Clark

About This Quote

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

Rationalism and sectarism are two facets of a single problem: a one‑sided subjectivity that rejects objective authority.

In simple terms: Both reject objective authority, leading to false subjectivity.

Key Takeaway

Beware of one‑sided thinking that ignores broader truth.

Themes

religion philosophy authority dogma critical thinking

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • church leadership
  • academic debate
  • personal belief formation
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

subjectivity objectivity false dichotomy theology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does one balance rational inquiry with respect for authority?
  • Can sectarian loyalty coexist with open‑mindedness?
A Different Perspective

Such dichotomies can oversimplify complex issues, ignoring nuance.

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