Belief Quote by Joseph Lewis
““The history of man proves that religion perverts man's concept of life and the universe, and has made him a cringing coward before the blind forces of nature. If you believe that there is a God; that man was 'created'; that he was forbidden to eat of the fruit of the 'tree of knowledge'; that he disobeyed; that he is a 'fallen angel'; that he is paying the penalty for his 'sins,' then you devote your time praying to appease an angry and jealous God. If, on the other hand, you believe that the universe is a great mystery; that man is the product of evolution; that he is born without knowledge; that intelligence comes from experience, then you devote your time and energies to improving his condition with the hope of securing a little happiness here for yourself and your fellow man. That is the difference. If man was 'created,' then someone made a grievous mistake.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Critique of Religion, Joseph Lewis, 1930s
Contrasts belief in a divine creator with a scientific, evolutionary view, arguing that the latter promotes personal responsibility and improvement over worship of an angry deity.
In simple terms: Science over faith leads to self‑improvement.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize rational inquiry and personal betterment.
Themes
religion
science
humanism
Mood
critical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- education reform
- public policy
- personal development
- community building
Key Concepts
theism
evolution
existentialism
ethical responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- Can moral values exist without religion?
- How does one find meaning in a secular worldview?
A Different Perspective
May discount the comfort and community religion provides.
