Skip to content

Black Quote by Mark Twain

“Leaving out the gamblers, the burglars, and the plumbers, perhaps we do put our trust in God after a fashion. But, after all, it is an overstatement. If the cholera or black plague should come to these shores, perhaps the bulk of the nation would pray to be delivered from it, but the rest would…” quote by Mark Twain
Download Open image
“Leaving out the gamblers, the burglars, and the plumbers, perhaps we do put our trust in God after a fashion. But, after all, it is an overstatement. If the cholera or black plague should come to these shores, perhaps the bulk of the nation would pray to be delivered from it, but the rest would put their trust in The Health Board...”

Mark Twain

About This Quote

The quote satirically critiques reliance on divine intervention for everyday problems while highlighting a pragmatic shift to scientific institutions when faced with crises like disease.

In simple terms: Critique of faith vs. science in emergencies.

Key Takeaway

Faith is secondary to practical solutions when stakes rise.

Themes

skepticism religion public health human nature social commentary

Mood

ironic critical thoughtful

Type

satire observation

When to use this quote

  • pandemic outbreak
  • natural disaster
  • public health emergency
  • societal panic

Key Concepts

trust institutional authority crisis response

Practical Applications

  • policy communication
  • public health messaging

Questions to Reflect On

  • When do people turn to faith versus expertise?
  • How does satire reveal societal priorities?
2.6 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Mark Twain

Explore all 3,277 Mark Twain quotes

More Black quotes

Browse all 11,655 Black quotes