Absurdity Quote by Clive Barker
““I think that God that we have created and allowed to shape our culture through, essentially Christian theology is a pretty villainous creature. I think that one of the things that male patriarchal figure has done is, allowed under it's, his church, his wing, all kinds of corruptions and villainies to grow and fester. In the name of that God terrible wars have been waged, in the name of that God terrible sexism has been allowed to spread. There are children being born all across this world that don't have enough food to eat because that God, at least his church, tells the mothers and fathers that they must procreate at all costs, and to prevent procreation with a condom is in contravention with his laws. Now, I don't believe that God exists. I think that God is creation of men, by men, and for men. What has happened over the many centuries now, the better part of two thousand in fact, is that that God has been slowly and steadily accruing power. His church has been accruing power, and the men who run that church, and they are all men, are not about to give it up. If they give it up, they give up luxury, they give up comfort.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview, 2010
The quote argues that the concept of God is a human construct used to wield power, leading to oppression and conflict.
In simple terms: God is seen as a tool for control and oppression.
Key Takeaway
Question the power structures tied to religion.
Themes
religion
power
gender
violence
culture
Mood
critical
analytical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- activism
- policy reform
- education
- interfaith dialogue
- family planning
Key Concepts
Patriarchalism
theology
social control
Questions to Reflect On
- How does belief in a higher power affect personal responsibility?
- Can secular ethics replace religious moral frameworks?
A Different Perspective
Religious belief can also provide community and moral guidance for many.
