Common sense Quote by Pierre Charron
““All Religions have this in common, that they are an outrage to common sense for they are pieced together out of a variety of elements, some of which seem so unworthy, sordid and at odds with man’s reason, that any strong and vigorous intelligence laughs at them... The human intellect is only capable of tackling mediocre subjects: it disdains petty subjects, and is startled by large ones. There is no reason to be surprised if it finds any religion hard to accept at first, for all are deficient in the mediocre and the commonplace, nor that it should require skill to induce belief. For the strong intellect laughs at religion, while the weak and superstitious mind marvels at it but is easily scandalized by it.””
About This Quote
Source Treat: The Maximes by Pierre Charron, 1584
Religion challenges rational minds, often appearing absurd, yet it persists beyond pure logic.
In simple terms: Religion can seem irrational.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of intellect in faith.
Themes
faith
reason
skepticism
human nature
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- debates on religion
- education
- personal belief systems
Key Concepts
philosophy
theology
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do people cling to beliefs despite irrationality?
- How does skepticism shape faith?
A Different Perspective
Strong intellect alone cannot fully grasp religious experience.
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