The most horrible wickedness and cruelties, and the…
“The most horrible wickedness and cruelties, and the greatest miseries that have troubled the human race began with this thing called revelation, or revealed religion. ... It would be far, far better for us to let a thousand devils roam the world, and publicly preach the doctrine of devils (if there were such a thing, which there isn't), than to let one impostor and monster such a Moses, Joshua, Samuel or the Bible prophets come speaking the so-called word of God, and causing men to believe it.”
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 can inspire harmful doctrines; the author argues that false prophets are more dangerous than imagined devils.
In simple terms: Religion can be used to justify cruelty.
Key Takeaway
Question authority and seek evidence.
Themes
religion
authority
dogma
danger
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
controversial
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- educational curricula
- public debates
- media analysis
Key Concepts
critical thinking
skepticism
historical critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does belief shape ethical behavior?
- Can faith coexist with reason?
A Different Perspective
Not all religious experiences are harmful; many find moral guidance.