Crusades Quote by Laurence Sterne
“It appears an extraordinary thing to me, that since there is such a diabolical spirit in the depravity of human nature, as persecution for difference of opinion in religious tenets, there never happened to be any inquisition, any auto da fe, any crusade, among the Pagans.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Tristram Shandy by Laurence Sterne, 1759
Human nature’s capacity for harsh judgment often leads to violent religious persecution, yet similar fervor was absent among pagans.
In simple terms: People harsh harsher toward differing religious views than toward non‑religious ones.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and curb intolerance in all forms.
Themes
religion
intolerance
human nature
history
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- religious debates
- interfaith dialogue
- education on tolerance
- policy making
Key Concepts
theology
social psychology
conflict
Questions to Reflect On
- How does secular intolerance compare to religious intolerance?
- What mechanisms reduce sectarian conflict?
A Different Perspective
Religious intolerance can also stem from political or cultural identity, not just doctrine.
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![“If an opinion contrary to your own makes you angry, that is a sign that you are subsciously aware of having no good reason for thinking as you do. [...] The most savage controversies are those about matters as to which there is no good evidence either way. Persecution is used in theology, not in…” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d41/bertrand-russell-69_angry_if-an-opinion-contrary-to-your-own-makes_997355.jpg)
