Atheism Quote by Michel Onfray
““For the first time (but how long will it take us to acknowledge this?) in the history of ideas, a philosopher had dedicated a whole book to the question of atheism. He professed it, demonstrated it, arguing and quoting, sharing his reading and his reflections, and seeking confirmation from his own observations of the everyday world. His title sets it out clearly: Memoir of the Thoughts and Feelings of Jean Meslier; and so does his subtitle: Clear and Evident Demonstrations of the Vanity and Falsity of All the Religions of the World. The book appeared in 1729, after his death. Meslier had spent the greater part of his life working on it. The history of true atheism had begun.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Memoir of the Thoughts and Feelings of Jean Meslier, 1729 (posthumous)
The quote highlights the unprecedented dedication of a philosopher to a comprehensive atheistic treatise, marking a historical milestone in secular thought.
In simple terms: A philosopher wrote a whole book arguing against religion, a first in history.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the significance of systematic secular critique.
Themes
philosophy
secularism
history
religion
intellectual history
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
historical
analytical
When to use this quote
- academic study
- public debate
- secular activism
- education
- philosophical writing
Key Concepts
atheism
critical inquiry
historical turning point
Questions to Reflect On
- How does a single work shape broader intellectual movements?
- What other voices contributed to early atheism?
A Different Perspective
The argument may overlook earlier, less formal atheistic ideas that existed before Meslier.
