Acquire Quote by Lucian
“The poor wretches have convinced themselves that they are going to be immortal and live for all time, by worshipping that crucified sophist and living under his laws...they receive these doctrines by tradition, without any definite evidence. So if any charlatan or trickster comes among them, he quickly acquires wealth by imposing upon these simple people.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: On the Nature of Belief, 2nd century CE
People cling to unproven doctrines, making them vulnerable to manipulation by charlatans.
In simple terms: Blind faith without evidence invites exploitation.
Key Takeaway
Question traditions and seek evidence before belief.
Themes
faith
tradition
skepticism
manipulation
authority
Mood
skeptical
cautious
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- religious debates
- political rhetoric
- education curricula
- community decision making
Key Concepts
critical thinking
philosophy of religion
social influence
propaganda
truth seeking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish genuine wisdom from deception?
- What role does evidence play in shaping belief?
A Different Perspective
Some traditions provide social cohesion despite lack of evidence.
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
