Absurdity Quote by Martin Gardner
“There are, and always have been, destructive pseudo-scientific notions linked to race and religion; these are the most widespread and damaging. Hopefully, educated people can succeed in shedding light into these areas of prejudice and ignorance, for as Voltaire once said: 'Men will commit atrocities as long as they believe absurdities.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New Yorker, 2015, "Science and Prejudice"
Prejudiced ideas about race and religion are rooted in pseudo‑science and cause widespread harm; education can illuminate and counter them.
In simple terms: Prejudice stems from false science; education helps.
Key Takeaway
Educate to dispel harmful myths.
Themes
prejudice
science
education
race
religion
Mood
concerned
hopeful
Type
analytical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- public policy
- media reporting
- community workshops
Key Concepts
critical thinking
social justice
knowledge dissemination
Questions to Reflect On
- How can education be made accessible to marginalized groups?
- What role do institutions play in perpetuating pseudo‑science?
A Different Perspective
Prejudice can persist despite education if power structures resist change.
![“[T]he more the public is confused, the easier it falls prey to doctrines of pseudo-science which may at some future date recieve the backing of politically powerful groups [...]a renaissance of German quasi-science paralleled the rise of Hitler.” quote by Martin Gardner](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7a1/martin-gardner-15175_confused_t-he-more-the-public-is-confused-the-eas_2720201.jpg)
