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Against religion Quote by Laurence Sterne

“First, whenever a man talks loudly against religion, always suspect that it is not his reason, but his passions, which have got the better of his creed. A bad life and a good belief are disagreeable and troublesome neighbors, and where they separate, depend upon it, 'Tis for no other cause but…” quote by Laurence Sterne
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“First, whenever a man talks loudly against religion, always suspect that it is not his reason, but his passions, which have got the better of his creed. A bad life and a good belief are disagreeable and troublesome neighbors, and where they separate, depend upon it, 'Tis for no other cause but quietness sake.”

Laurence Sterne

About This Quote

Source Book: The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, 1759

Passions can dominate rational belief, causing conflict between heartfelt emotion and doctrinal reason, leading to inner unrest.

In simple terms: Strong emotions can override reason, creating tension between feeling and belief.

Key Takeaway

Balance emotion with reason to avoid inner conflict.

Themes

religion reason passion conflict

Mood

thoughtful analytical skeptical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • debates on faith
  • personal decision making
  • moral dilemmas

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you separate passion from belief?
  • Can reason coexist with strong emotion?
A Different Perspective

Passions may cloud judgment; reason is still needed.

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