Belief Quote by Mary Doria Russell
““I think the world will be a better place when science has swept all religion into the dustbin of history. What is religion but a shared belief in things that cannot be known? When we substitute concurrence for fact, fantasy quickly replaces knowledge. Why? Because knowledge is much more trouble to acquire!””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell, 1996
The quote argues that science will eventually displace religion, as religion relies on unknowable beliefs while science seeks factual knowledge, which is harder to obtain.
In simple terms: Science will replace religion because it demands evidence, not faith.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize evidence‑based understanding over unverified beliefs.
Themes
science
religion
knowledge
skepticism
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- public policy
- personal belief systems
- media narratives
Key Concepts
epistemology
faith vs reason
intellectual progress
Questions to Reflect On
- Can science address human needs that religion fulfills?
- What value does faith provide that science cannot?
A Different Perspective
It may underestimate the cultural and emotional roles of religion beyond belief in the unknown.
![“[John] watched the flames for a while. "I would have to say that I find God in serving His children. 'When I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me to drink, I was a stanger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, sick and you cared for me, imprisoned and you came to me.'"…” quote by Mary Doria Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a0f/mary-doria-russell-3319_break-your-heart_john-watched-the-flames-for-a-while-i-wo_172417.jpg)
