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Atheism Quote by Peter De Vries

“You don't believe in God," I said to Stein. "God is a word banging around in the human nervous system. He exists about as much as Santa Claus." "Santa Claus has had a tremendous influence, exist or not." "For children." "Lots of saints have died for God with a courage that's hardly childish."…” quote by Peter De Vries
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“You don't believe in God," I said to Stein. "God is a word banging around in the human nervous system. He exists about as much as Santa Claus." "Santa Claus has had a tremendous influence, exist or not." "For children." "Lots of saints have died for God with a courage that's hardly childish." "That's part of the horror. It's all a fantasy. It's all for nothing.”

Peter De Vries

About This Quote

Source Short story: "The God of the Little Things" by Peter De Vries, 1965

Challenges religious belief by comparing it to cultural myths, suggesting faith may be a human construct.

In simple terms: Faith can be seen as a cultural story rather than fact.

Key Takeaway

Consider the role of belief in personal life.

Themes

faith myth skepticism culture existentialism

Mood

thoughtful skeptical conversational

Type

philosophical inquisitive

When to use this quote

  • debates on religion
  • personal belief formation
  • ethical decisions

Key Concepts

religion human psychology social influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you find comfort in myths?
  • How do you differentiate belief from fact?
A Different Perspective

May dismiss genuine spiritual experiences and community value.

4.4 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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