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A widespread assumption, which nearly everybody in our…

“A widespread assumption, which nearly everybody in our society accepts – the non-religious included – is that religious faith is especially vulnerable to offence and should be protected by an abnormally thick wall of respect, in a different class from the respect that any human being should pay to…” quote by Richard Dawkins
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““A widespread assumption, which nearly everybody in our society accepts – the non-religious included – is that religious faith is especially vulnerable to offence and should be protected by an abnormally thick wall of respect, in a different class from the respect that any human being should pay to any other.””

Richard Dawkins

About This Quote

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

Many people think faith must be shielded from criticism more than any other belief.

In simple terms: Faith is often given special protection from critique.

Key Takeaway

Question why faith is treated differently.

Themes

religion free speech respect societal norms

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical controversial

When to use this quote

  • public debates
  • academic discussions
  • media commentary
  • interfaith dialogues

Key Concepts

pluralism censorship ethical tolerance

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should all beliefs be equally open to criticism?
  • How does special protection affect dialogue?
A Different Perspective

Some argue that all ideas deserve equal scrutiny, not just faith.

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