Commitment Quote by Barack Obama
“At some fundamental level, religion does not allow for compromise. It insists on the impossible. If God has spoken, then followers are expected to live up to God's edicts, regardless of the consequences. To base one's life on such uncompromising commitment may be sublime; to base our policy making on such commitments would be a dangerous thing.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on Religion and Policy, 2015
The passage notes that strict religious literalism demands absolute adherence, which can be inspiring personally but dangerous when shaping public policy.
In simple terms: Absolute religious rules can be risky in governance.
Separate personal belief from policy decisions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legislative debates
- court rulings
- public policy formation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Should personal faith dictate public law?
- How can societies balance moral conviction with pragmatic governance?
Religious absolutism may ignore pluralism and practical consequences.