Blight Quote by Daniel Taylor
“For the last 250 years or so, secularists have waited patiently for the fulfilment of their prediction that religion would die out in the next generation or two. But religious people have been singularly uncooperative, and new strategies have developed for controlling this blight on human progress. If religion won't "wither away" as philosopher Richard Rorty has wished, then perhaps it can be privatized and thereby removed from influence on public life‚ - sort of like localizing an outbreak of the plague.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Secularism and Religion, 2020
Religion persists despite predictions of decline, prompting calls to isolate its public influence.
In simple terms: Religion remains; it may need to be limited in public life.
Key Takeaway
Consider limiting religion’s public role.
Themes
secularism
religion
public policy
social progress
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
political
When to use this quote
- legislative debate
- community organizing
- educational curricula
- media discourse
Key Concepts
pluralism
separation of church and state
cultural dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance religious freedom with secular governance?
- What are the risks of marginalizing religious communities?
A Different Perspective
Privatizing religion may clash with freedom of belief and cultural identity.
