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The supposed right of intolerance is absurd and barbaric…

“The supposed right of intolerance is absurd and barbaric. It is the right of the tiger; nay, it is far worse, for tigers do but tear in order to have food, while we rend each other for paragraphs.” quote by Voltaire
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“The supposed right of intolerance is absurd and barbaric. It is the right of the tiger; nay, it is far worse, for tigers do but tear in order to have food, while we rend each other for paragraphs.”

Voltaire

About This Quote

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

Intolerance is likened to a tiger’s violent nature, but human cruelty over paragraphs is even worse, highlighting the absurdity of intellectual conflict.

In simple terms: Intolerance is barbaric and absurd.

Key Takeaway

Reject intolerance, value reason.

Themes

philosophy human rights absurdity

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • academic discourse
  • political rhetoric

Key Concepts

ethics rationalism conflict

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do people fight over ideas?
  • How can reason prevail?
A Different Perspective

Intellectual disputes can become more harmful than natural aggression.

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