Conscience Quote by Paul Tillich
“In this respect fundamentalism has demonic traits. It destroys the humble honesty of the search for truth, it splits the conscience of its thoughtful adherents, and it makes them fanatical because they are forced to suppress elements of truth of which they are dimly aware”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Courage to Be, Paul Tillich, 1952
Fundamentalism rigidifies belief, crushing honest inquiry and causing internal conflict, leading to fanatical suppression of partial truths.
In simple terms: Rigid belief blocks honest search and creates inner conflict.
Key Takeaway
Question beliefs and seek humility.
Themes
faith
dogmatism
psychology
truth
conflict
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- religious debate
- academic research
- personal reflection
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
existentialism
theology
cognitive dissonance
Questions to Reflect On
- How does certainty hinder truth?
- What can humility restore in belief?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook the social cohesion some find in firm doctrines.
![“[American] conformism might approximate collectivism, not so much in economic respects, and not too much in political respects, but very much in the pattern of daily life and thought. Whether this will happen or not, and if it does to what degree, is partly dependent on the power of resistance in…” quote by Paul Tillich](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9c1/paul-tillich-3183_collectivism_american-conformism-might-approximate-co_52875.jpg)
