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Let us therefore reject all superstition in order to…

“Let us therefore reject all superstition in order to become more human; but in speaking against fanaticism, let us not imitate the fanatics: they are sick men in delirium who want to chastise their doctors. Let us assuage their ills, and never embitter them, and let us pour drop by drop into their…” quote by Voltaire
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“Let us therefore reject all superstition in order to become more human; but in speaking against fanaticism, let us not imitate the fanatics: they are sick men in delirium who want to chastise their doctors. Let us assuage their ills, and never embitter them, and let us pour drop by drop into their souls the divine balm of toleration, which they would reject with horror if it were offered to them all at once.”

Voltaire

About This Quote

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

Advocates tolerance, urging compassion toward fanatics without mirroring their hostility.

In simple terms: Be kind to those with extreme views.

Key Takeaway

Practice patient empathy.

Themes

tolerance compassion fanaticism

Mood

thoughtful calm

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • political debates
  • religious discussions
  • online forums
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

humanism ethical discourse moderation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you maintain empathy without endorsing harmful ideas?
  • What actions promote genuine understanding?
A Different Perspective

Tolerance can be seen as weakness.

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