Religion Quote by Condoleezza Rice
““Madison and others reserved their harshest criticism for state religions obsessed with earthly wealth and power. Their argument was two-pronged: State religion was bad for the individual citizen, interfering with his most basic and personal of choices, and it was bad for religion, condemning the church to worldliness and corruption.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address on religious freedom, Washington D.C., 2005
State religions focused on wealth corrupt individuals and the faith itself.
In simple terms: State‑controlled religion harms people and religion.
Advocate for separation of church and state.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- public debate
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can religion thrive without state support?
- What safeguards prevent religious corruption?
Some argue state religion can protect moral order.