Deluded Quote by Christopher Hitchens
““In the infancy of new religions, the wise and learned commonly esteem the matter too inconsiderable to deserve their attention or regard. And when afterwards they would willingly detect the cheat in order to undeceive the deluded multitude, the season is now past, and the records and witnesses, which might clear up the matter, have perished beyond recovery.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Faith of the Unbeliever”, 2005
Early scholars dismiss new religions as trivial, but later they expose fraud after evidence disappears, showing a pattern of delayed critique.
In simple terms: Scholars often ignore new faiths until it’s too late to investigate.
Key Takeaway
Critically evaluate emerging movements early.
Themes
religion
skepticism
historical revision
Mood
cautious
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- public policy
- community leadership
Key Concepts
critical thinking
intellectual honesty
media literacy
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do authorities delay confronting new movements?
- What mechanisms can ensure timely scrutiny?
A Different Perspective
Early dismissal may allow harmful ideas to spread unchecked.
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