Skip to content

Atheist Quote by Christopher Hitchens

“Gullibility and credulity are considered undesireable qualities in every department of human life - except religion ... Why are we praised by godly men for surrendering our 'godly gift' of reason when we cross their mental thresholds?” quote by Christopher Hitchens
Download Open image
“Gullibility and credulity are considered undesireable qualities in every department of human life - except religion ... Why are we praised by godly men for surrendering our 'godly gift' of reason when we cross their mental thresholds?”

Christopher Hitchens

About This Quote

The quote critiques how societies, especially religious ones, value blind faith over rational inquiry, suggesting that reason is discouraged when it challenges doctrinal boundaries.

In simple terms: Reason is suppressed when it threatens belief systems.

Key Takeaway

Faith often outweighs critical thinking.

Themes

faith vs reason authority intellectual conformity skepticism religious dogma

Mood

skeptical provocative critical

Type

philosophical provocative

When to use this quote

  • religious debates
  • academic discussions
  • personal belief crises
  • political rhetoric
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

cognitive bias social pressure epistemic humility

Practical Applications

  • critical thinking education
  • interfaith dialogue

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does society balance faith and reason?
  • When is questioning authority beneficial?
A Different Perspective

Some argue that faith provides comfort and community, which can be as valuable as rational analysis in certain contexts.

4.5 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Christopher Hitchens

Explore all 1,241 Christopher Hitchens quotes

More Atheist quotes

Browse all 2,434 Atheist quotes