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Aberration Quote by Bertrand Russell

“The Christian view that all intercourse outside marriage is immoral was, as we see in the above passages from St. Paul, based upon the view that all sexual intercourse, even within marriage, is regrettable. A view of this sort, which goes against biological facts, can only be regarded by sane…” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“The Christian view that all intercourse outside marriage is immoral was, as we see in the above passages from St. Paul, based upon the view that all sexual intercourse, even within marriage, is regrettable. A view of this sort, which goes against biological facts, can only be regarded by sane people as a morbid aberration. The fact that it is embedded in Christian ethics has made Christianity throughout its whole history a force tending towards mental disorders and unwholesome views of life.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Essay: Why I Am Not a Christian, 1927

The passage argues that labeling all sexual activity as immoral, even within marriage, contradicts biological reality and harms mental health.

In simple terms: Sexual morality should align with biology, not strict doctrine.

Key Takeaway

Question harmful moral doctrines.

Themes

ethics sexuality religion

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

analytical controversial

When to use this quote

  • sexual education
  • counseling
  • policy debate

Key Concepts

biology psychology social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence supports healthier sexual ethics?
  • How can societies balance tradition and science?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex religious perspectives.

4.9 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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