Atheist Quote by Bertrand Russell
“I was told that The Chinese said they would bury me by the Western Lake and build a shrine to my memory. I have some slight regret that this did not happen, as I might have become a god, which would have been very chic for an atheist.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Why I Am Not a Christian, 1927
He muses that a posthumous shrine could elevate his legacy to godlike status, highlighting irony for an atheist.
In simple terms: Regret over missed fame after death.
Key Takeaway
Consider how legacy shapes identity.
Themes
legacy
irony
atheism
mortality
Mood
reflective
ironic
Type
philosophical
humorous
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- memorial planning
- personal branding
Key Concepts
existentialism
celebrity culture
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you seek recognition after death?
- How does belief affect your view of legacy?
A Different Perspective
The desire for fame may conflict with personal beliefs.
![“[ When asked what he wants for his tombstone epitaph ] Since I'm an atheist, and have no belief whatsoever in life after death, I couldn't care less -- it's not like it'll have any impact on me, since by definition I will be completely extinguished. I guess if someone twisted my arm and forced me…” quote by Richard Bartle](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0d1/richard-bartle-129409_afterlife_when-asked-what-he-wants-for-his-tombsto_1202035.jpg)
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
