Now, we deny not, but that politicians may sometimes abuse…
“Now, we deny not, but that politicians may sometimes abuse religion, and make it serve for the promoting of their own private interests and designs; which yet they could not do so well neither, were the thing itself a mere cheat and figment of their own, and had no reality at all in nature, nor anything solid at the bottom of it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage warns that using religion as a tool for personal gain reduces it to a mere illusion lacking true substance.
In simple terms: Using faith for selfish aims makes it empty.
Key Takeaway
Avoid exploiting belief for personal agendas.
Themes
ethics
religion
integrity
politics
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- political speeches
- policy debates
- public sermons
- media commentary
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
instrumentalism
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the consequences of weaponizing belief?
- Can faith retain meaning when politicized?
A Different Perspective
Some may argue religion inherently serves societal functions beyond personal use.