Dogmas Quote by Bertrand Russell
“By religion I mean a set of beliefs held as dogmas, dominating the conduct of life, going beyond or contrary to evidence, and inculcated by methods which are emotional or authoritarian, not intellectual.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Why I Am Not a Christian, Bertrand Russell, 1927
Religion is portrayed as dogmatic, emotionally driven, and authoritarian, often conflicting with evidence and reason.
In simple terms: Religion as dogma over reason.
Question beliefs, seek evidence.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal belief evaluation
- academic discourse
- public policy debates
- interfaith dialogues
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does emotional appeal affect belief?
- Can faith coexist with evidence?
Critics argue that not all religious practice is authoritarian or anti‑intellectual.