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If our polls are to be trusted, nearly 230 million…

“If our polls are to be trusted, nearly 230 million Americans believe that a book showing neither unity of style nor internal consistency was authored by an omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent deity. A survey of Hindus, Muslims, and Jews around the world would surely yield similar results…” quote by Sam Harris
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““If our polls are to be trusted, nearly 230 million Americans believe that a book showing neither unity of style nor internal consistency was authored by an omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent deity. A survey of Hindus, Muslims, and Jews around the world would surely yield similar results, revealing that we, as a species, have grown almost perfectly intoxicated by our myths. How is it that, in this one area of our lives, we have convinced ourselves that our beliefs about the world can float entirely free of reason and evidence?””

Sam Harris

About This Quote

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

Highlights humanity's tendency to accept religious beliefs without evidence, showing a conflict between faith and reason.

In simple terms: People often believe without proof.

Key Takeaway

Question unexamined beliefs.

Themes

faith reason myths

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical inquisitive

When to use this quote

  • religious discourse
  • education
  • public policy
  • interfaith dialogue

Key Concepts

epistemology psychology culture

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence would change your view?
  • How do myths shape identity?
A Different Perspective

Deeply held beliefs may provide comfort despite lack of evidence.

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