Absurd Quote by Lawrence Wright
“There are many countries where you can only believe more or you can believe less. But in the United States we have this incredible smorgasbord, and it really interests me why people are drawn to one faith rather than another, especially to a system of belief that to an outsider seems absurd or dangerous.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Looming Tower, 2006
Observes that the U.S. offers a wide array of belief systems, prompting curiosity about why people choose seemingly irrational or risky faiths
In simple terms: America has many faith options, yet people pick odd or dangerous ones
Key Takeaway
Explore why people gravitate toward unconventional beliefs
Themes
religion
choice
cultural diversity
Mood
analytical
inquisitive
critical
Type
sociological
psychological
religious
When to use this quote
- Debating religious freedom
- studying conversion stories
- examining extremist recruitment
- hosting interfaith panels
Key Concepts
Pluralism
cognitive bias
social identity
Questions to Reflect On
- What social needs drive people to adopt extreme faiths?
- How does abundance of choice affect religious commitment?
A Different Perspective
People may choose beliefs for social belonging, not just rationality
