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Contempt Quote by Edmund Burke

“True religion is the foundation of society. When that is once shaken by contempt, the whole fabric cannot be stable nor lasting.” quote by Edmund Burke
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“True religion is the foundation of society. When that is once shaken by contempt, the whole fabric cannot be stable nor lasting.”

Edmund Burke

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Thoughts on Religion and Society, 1790

Society relies on shared religious values; when those values are despised, social cohesion collapses.

In simple terms: Religion underpins social stability; contempt weakens it.

Key Takeaway

Foster respect for core moral beliefs to maintain social order.

Themes

religion social cohesion morality political stability

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • public policy
  • community building
  • interfaith dialogue

Key Concepts

Social contract cultural foundations ethical norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can societies thrive without a common religion?
  • What replaces religion’s role in modern cohesion?
A Different Perspective

Secular societies may find alternative foundations for cohesion.

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