Butlers Quote by Bertrand Russell
“Tobacco . . . is not prohibited in the Scriptures, though, as Samuel Butler points out, St. Paul would no doubt have denounced it if he had known of it.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Conquest of Happiness by Bertrand Russell, 1930
The Bible does not forbid tobacco, but Paul would likely have condemned it if he knew its harms.
In simple terms: Bible silent on tobacco; Paul might oppose it.
Consider health impacts when interpreting ancient texts.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public health policy
- religious counseling
- personal choices
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How should contemporary knowledge affect ancient moral teachings?
- Do we reinterpret texts with new science?
Modern knowledge may change moral judgments.