Absolutes Quote by David Cronenberg
“It was apparent to me that religion was an invented thing, a wish-fulfillment thing, a fantasy thing. It was much more real, dangerous, to accept that mortality was the end for you as an individual. As an atheist, I don't believe in an afterlife, so if you're thinking of murder, if your subject is murder, then that's a physical act of absolute destruction because you're ending something, a body, that is unique. That person never existed before, will never exist again, will not be karmically recycled, will not go to heaven, therefore I take it seriously.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Cronenberg Interview, 2009
Religion is viewed as a human construct that comforts mortality, but its denial can intensify the seriousness of ending a unique life.
In simple terms: Religion as comfort, death denial intensifies seriousness of killing.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the weight of ending a life.
Themes
mortality
religion
ethics
violence
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- criminal justice
- philosophical debate
- personal reflection
- healthcare ethics
Key Concepts
existentialism
nihilism
moral responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How does belief in an afterlife affect moral behavior?
- Can secular frameworks provide similar moral guidance?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook cultural and psychological benefits of religious belief.
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![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
