Skip to content

The most detestable wickedness, the most horrid cruelties…

“The most detestable wickedness, the most horrid cruelties, and the greatest miseries, that have afflicted the human race have had their origin in this thing called revelation, or revealed religion.” quote by Thomas Paine
Download Open image
“The most detestable wickedness, the most horrid cruelties, and the greatest miseries, that have afflicted the human race have had their origin in this thing called revelation, or revealed religion.”

Thomas Paine

About This Quote

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

Revealed religion fuels some of humanity’s worst cruelty and suffering.

In simple terms: Religion can cause great evil.

Key Takeaway

Critically examine belief systems.

Themes

religion evil human nature critique

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical controversial

When to use this quote

  • debates on faith
  • secular education
  • human rights advocacy

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics history

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role does belief play in moral behavior?
  • Can secular ethics replace religious morals?
A Different Perspective

Not all religious expressions are harmful; context matters.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Thomas Paine

Explore all 772 Thomas Paine quotes

More Age of reason quotes

Browse all 102 Age of reason quotes