Accepting Quote by Karen Armstrong
“It is people who are violent, rather than "religions"; and since we secularised our politics we have had two major world wars, the Holocaust, the Soviet Gulag, and the atomic attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki - none of which were inspired by religion. If we want to understand the dangers of our world, we can no longer accept the old received ideas.”
About This Quote
Violence stems from human actions, not religions; secular politics have led to major wars and atrocities, showing the need to reject outdated ideas.
In simple terms: Violence is human, not religious; old ideas must be questioned.
Question inherited beliefs and seek humane solutions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- education
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions about religion influence your view?
- How can societies prevent violence?
Complex causes beyond religion exist.