Skip to content

Assumption Quote by Margaret E. Knight

“There is no ground whatever for the claim, so often made by religious apologists, that these ideals are specifically Christian and originated with Jesus. What were specifically Christian were some of the less enlightened teachings, which have done untold harm. Christians claim that organised…” quote by Margaret E. Knight
Download Open image
“There is no ground whatever for the claim, so often made by religious apologists, that these ideals are specifically Christian and originated with Jesus. What were specifically Christian were some of the less enlightened teachings, which have done untold harm. Christians claim that organised Christianity has been a great force for good, but this view can be maintained on one assumption only: that everything good in the Christian era is a result of Christianity and everything bad happened in spite of it.”

Margaret E. Knight

About This Quote

The quote argues that attributing all good to Christianity and all bad to other causes is a biased simplification.

In simple terms: Blames Christianity for both good and bad, but claims bias.

Key Takeaway

Recognize bias in attributing moral outcomes to religion.

Themes

religion bias history ethics causality

Mood

critical reflective

Type

analytical controversial

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • interfaith dialogue
  • policy making
  • education
  • media criticism

Key Concepts

theology historical analysis moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we fairly assess religion’s impact?
  • What other factors shape moral progress?
A Different Perspective

Oversimplifies complex historical influences on morality.

2.5 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Margaret E. Knight

Explore all 13 Margaret E. Knight quotes

More Assumption quotes

Browse all 1,277 Assumption quotes