Justice Quote by Dorothy Day
“We also know that religion, as the Marxists have always insisted, has, too often, like an opiate, tended to put people to sleep to the reality and the need for the present struggle for peace and justice.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The World of Tomorrow, Dorothy Day, 1945
Marxists view religion as a sedative that distracts people from confronting present social struggles for peace and justice.
In simple terms: Religion can dull awareness of current injustices.
Key Takeaway
Questionize and act on today’s issues.
Themes
social justice
religion
political critique
activism
Mood
thoughtful
critical
inspirational
Type
philosophical
activist
When to use this quote
- peace movements
- civil rights protests
- community organizing
- faith-based activism
Key Concepts
Marxist theory
opiate metaphor
consciousness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does faith inspire activism?
- Can secular movements learn from religious solidarity?
A Different Perspective
Religion also offers community and hope, which can motivate action rather than just pacify.
![“This cold weather has set all the young Folks to providing Bedfellows. I have signed two or three Licences every Day [as a Fairfax Justice of the Peace] since I have been at Home. I wish I knew where to get a good one myself; for I find cold Sheets extreamly disagreeable.” quote by George Mason](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b92/george-mason-8435_bedfellows_this-cold-weather-has-set-all-the-young_3953.jpg)
