Appeals Quote by Harry Emerson Fosdick
“One of the strange phenomena of the last century is the spectacle of religion dropping the appeal of fear while other human interests have picked it up.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: The Christian Faith in the Modern World, 1930s
Religion loses its fear‑based grip while other human pursuits fill that void, showing how societies replace old anxieties with new passions.
In simple terms: Religion’s fear fades, other interests take its place.
Key Takeaway
Recognize where fear is being replaced.
Themes
culture
religion
psychology
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
observational
When to use this quote
- political activism
- media consumption
- personal belief systems
Key Concepts
secularization
human motivation
social change
Questions to Reflect On
- What modern forces replace religious fear?
- How can we address the new anxieties?
A Different Perspective
The claim overlooks people who still experience religious fear.
