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We do not admit the authority of the church with respect…

“We do not admit the authority of the church with respect to its pretended infallibility, its manufactured miracles, its setting itself up to forgive sins. It was by propagating that belief and supporting it with fire that she kept up her temporal power.” quote by Thomas Paine
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“We do not admit the authority of the church with respect to its pretended infallibility, its manufactured miracles, its setting itself up to forgive sins. It was by propagating that belief and supporting it with fire that she kept up her temporal power.”

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.

Criticizes the church’s claim to infallibility and its use of miracles to maintain power, suggesting it relies on fear and propaganda.

In simple terms: Challenges church authority and its power tactics.

Key Takeaway

Question institutional authority.

Themes

religion power authority propaganda skepticism

Mood

critical skeptical

Type

philosophical political.

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • academic study
  • public debate

Key Concepts

theology political philosophy social control

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence supports the claim of power through fear?
  • Can religious institutions reform without losing influence?
A Different Perspective

May overlook positive aspects of faith for some.

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