Religion Quote by Benjamin Franklin
““When a Religion is good, I conceive that it will support itself; and, when it cannot support itself, and God does not take care to support, so that its Professors are oblig'd to call for the help of the Civil Power, it is a sign, I apprehend, of its being a bad one.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Way to Wealth” (1768)
A religion that cannot sustain itself without government aid is likely flawed and dependent on external power.
In simple terms: Bad religions rely on state support.
Key Takeaway
Seek self‑sustaining faith communities.
Themes
religion
self‑sufficiency
politics
morality
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- community building
- policy making
- faith education
- charitable initiatives
Key Concepts
social contract
institutional integrity
autonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can a faith maintain integrity without state aid?
- What responsibilities do believers have to self‑support?
A Different Perspective
Religions may still thrive despite external support if culturally embedded.
