Annoying Quote by George Bernard Shaw
“Perhaps I had better inform my Protestant readers that the famous Dogma of Papal Infallibility is by far the most modest pretension of the kind in existence. Compared with our infallible democracies, our infallible medical councils, our infallible astronomers, our infallible judges, and our infallible parliaments, the Pope is on his knees in the dust confessing his ignorance before the throne of God, asking only that as to certain historical matters on which he has clearly more sources of information open to him than anyone else his decision shall be taken as final.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Man Who Was Thursday, George Bernard Shaw, 1908
Shaw mocks the claim of papal infallibility by comparing it to other so‑called infallible institutions, highlighting the Pope’s humility.
In simple terms: Pope’s authority is modest compared to other institutions.
Key Takeaway
Recognize humility in authority.
Themes
humility
authority
religion
critique
Mood
skeptical
ironic
thoughtful
Type
critical
satirical
When to use this quote
- church debates
- political discourse
- academic analysis
Key Concepts
theology
institutional critique
satire
Questions to Reflect On
- How does humility affect leadership?
- What are the limits of institutional authority?
A Different Perspective
The comparison may oversimplify complex institutional roles.
