Christianity Quote by George H. Smith
““When conformity is required, as it is in Christianity, what are the results? To begin with, the sacrifice of truth inevitably follows. One can be committed to conformity or one can be committed to truth, but not both. The pursuit of truth requires the unrestricted use of one's mind--the moral freedom to question, to examine evidence, to consider opposing viewpoints, to criticize, to accept as true only that which can be demonstrated--regardless whether one's conclusions conform to a particular creed.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Freedom of Thought, 1991
Conformity suppresses truth; true inquiry demands free, critical thinking.
In simple terms: Blind obedience kills truth.
Key Takeaway
Question authority to seek truth.
Themes
freedom
truth
conformity
critical thinking
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
argumentative
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- political discourse
- religious study
- personal belief formation
Key Concepts
moral freedom
skepticism
intellectual honesty
Questions to Reflect On
- What truths are you willing to challenge?
- How does conformity shape your beliefs?
A Different Perspective
Truth may be uncomfortable or socially costly.
![“The negative way [of describing God] is a cardboard prop of Christianity to conceal its unknowable God. When this prop collapses, theistic agnosticism emerges, complete with its package of contradictions and non-sensical utterances.” quote by George H. Smith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/86f/george-h-smith-20207_agnosticism_the-negative-way-of-describing-god-is-a_433133.jpg)
