Skip to content

Control Quote by Bertrand Russell

“Religious toleration, to a certain extent, has been won, because people have ceased to consider religion so important as it was once thought to be. But in politics and economics, which have taken the place formerly occupied by religion, there is a growing tendency to persecution, which is not by…” quote by Bertrand Russell
Download Open image
““Religious toleration, to a certain extent, has been won, because people have ceased to consider religion so important as it was once thought to be. But in politics and economics, which have taken the place formerly occupied by religion, there is a growing tendency to persecution, which is not by any means confined to one party.””

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Essay: "Religion and Politics," 1915

Secular powers replace religion as the main source of conflict, leading to new forms of persecution.

In simple terms: Religion's role declines, but power struggles persist.

Key Takeaway

Watch for new sources of intolerance.

Themes

politics secularism conflict

Mood

cautionary thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • economic competition
  • social movements
  • interfaith dialogue

Key Concepts

Sociology power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we prevent new persecutions?
  • Can secularism guarantee tolerance?
A Different Perspective

Power can corrupt regardless of ideology.

2.6 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Bertrand Russell

Explore all 1,620 Bertrand Russell quotes

More Control quotes

Browse all 6,032 Control quotes