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Children Quote by Richard Dawkins

“A child is not a Christian child, not a Muslim child, but a child of Christian parents or a child of Muslim parents. This latter nomenclature, by the way, would be an excellent piece of consciousness-raising for the children themselves. A child who is told she is a 'child of Muslim parents' will…” quote by Richard Dawkins
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“A child is not a Christian child, not a Muslim child, but a child of Christian parents or a child of Muslim parents. This latter nomenclature, by the way, would be an excellent piece of consciousness-raising for the children themselves. A child who is told she is a 'child of Muslim parents' will immediately realize that religion is something for her to choose -or reject- when she becomes old enough to do so.”

Richard Dawkins

About This Quote

Source Interview: The God Del, 2006

Labeling children by parents’ religion encourages personal choice, reducing imposed identity.

In simple terms: Naming by parents’ faith promotes choice.

Key Takeaway

Let children choose beliefs.

Themes

identity religion choice

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • education
  • interfaith dialogue

Key Concepts

socialization cognitive development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does labeling affect belief?
  • Can identity foster autonomy?
A Different Perspective

Children may still feel pressure.

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