Converting Quote by Eric Hoffer
“The proselytizing fanatic strengthens his own faith by converting others. The creed whose legitimacy is most easily challenged is likely to develop the strongest proselytizing impulse.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The True Believer, 1951
Proselytizing reinforces believers’ conviction by converting others, making the creed seem stronger.
In simple terms: Converting others strengthens belief.
Key Takeaway
Be aware of conversion motives.
Themes
faith
conversion
psychology
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- religious outreach
- political campaigning
- cult recruitment
- missionary work
Key Concepts
proselytizing
faith reinforcement
social influence
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do people seek to convert others?
- What are ethical limits of proselytizing?
A Different Perspective
Conversion can be coercive or manipulative.
![“When our lives are congruent with the Lord’s will, we are empowered spiritually. Remember what Joseph Smith was taught in Liberty Jail? If we let ‘virtue garnish [our] thoughts unceasingly; then shall [our] confidence wax strong in the presence of God’ (D&C 121:45). That is what we want as we seek…” quote by Gerald N. Lund](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bee/gerald-n-lund-67182_confidence_when-our-lives-are-congruent-with-the-lo_1126227.jpg)
