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Atheism Quote by John Locke

“Those are not at all to be tolerated who deny the being of God. Promises, covenants, and oaths, which are the bonds of human society, can have no hold upon an atheist. The taking away of God, though but even in thought, dissolves all.” quote by John Locke
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“Those are not at all to be tolerated who deny the being of God. Promises, covenants, and oaths, which are the bonds of human society, can have no hold upon an atheist. The taking away of God, though but even in thought, dissolves all.”

John Locke

About This Quote

Source Treatise: An Essay Concerning Human Understanding, 1690

Denial of God undermines moral foundations and social bonds.

In simple terms: Rejecting God erodes ethical commitments and societal cohesion.

Key Takeaway

Consider the role of shared beliefs in moral order.

Themes

religion morality social cohesion philosophy

Mood

thought‑provoking philosophical skeptical

Type

ethical theoretical

When to use this quote

  • legal systems
  • education
  • community building

Key Concepts

theology ethics ontology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is morality possible without belief in God?
  • How do societies maintain cohesion amid diverse beliefs?
A Different Perspective

religious belief;may not account for secular moral frameworks.

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