Civilised society Quote by David Hume
““The admirers and followers of the Al Koran insist on the excellent moral precepts interspersed throughout that wild and absurd performance...Would we know, whether the pretended prophet had really attained a just sentiment of morality, let us attend to his narration, and we shall soon find, that he bestows praise upon such instances of treachery, inhumanity, cruelty, revenge, bigotry, as are utterly incompatible with civilised society. No steady rule of right conduct seems there to be attended to: and every action is blamed or praised, so far only as it is beneficial or harmful to the true believers.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Of the Standard of Taste, 1757 (quoted in discussion of religious morality)
Hume critiques the Al Koran for lacking consistent moral guidance, noting that its teachings often praise immoral acts, revealing a disconnect between religious narrative and ethical standards.
In simple terms: Religious texts may conflict with universal morality.
Key Takeaway
Question moral consistency.
Themes
religion
ethics
interpretation
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- theological debate
- educational curricula
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
Moral relativism
textual analysis
philosophical critique
Practical Applications
- Legal frameworks
- media commentary
- public discourse
Questions to Reflect On
- Can moral truths be derived independently of scripture?
- What criteria determine ethical validity?
A Different Perspective
Faith communities may defend the text’s moral value.
