Cutting Quote by Mark Twain
“We don't cut up when mad men are bred by the old legitimate regular stock religions, but we can't allow wildcat religions to indulge in such disastrous experiments.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Unknown, possibly a public lecture or essay, 19th century
The quote warns against allowing radical or untested religious movements to conduct dangerous experiments, while noting that established religions also have flaws but are less likely to cause chaos.
In simple terms: Beware of reckless new religions, even if old ones are imperfect.
Exercise caution with novel religious movements.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public policy
- community leadership
- interfaith dialogue
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance respect for tradition with vigilance against harmful innovation?
- What safeguards can prevent dangerous experiments in any belief system?
Established religions can also become oppressive, so blanket distrust may be harmful.