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Belief Quote by Richard Dawkins

“I do believe that nice religious people make the world safe for extremists by teaching us [...] that faith is a virtue, teaching us that there's something good about holding beliefs without any substantiating evidence. Once you buy into that, [...] then the door is opened to extremists who defend…” quote by Richard Dawkins
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“I do believe that nice religious people make the world safe for extremists by teaching us [...] that faith is a virtue, teaching us that there's something good about holding beliefs without any substantiating evidence. Once you buy into that, [...] then the door is opened to extremists who defend their extremism by saying, 'Oh well, it's my faith, you can't touch it, you can't criticise my faith, I don't even need to defend it because faith is faith.'”

Richard Dawkins

About This Quote

Source Interview: The God Delusion, Richard Dawkins, 2006

Blind faith can shield harmful ideologies by discouraging critical examination.

In simple terms: Unquestioned belief can enable extremism.

Key Takeaway

Question beliefs and demand evidence.

Themes

faith extremism critical thinking

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical controversial

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • education
  • public policy
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

skepticism ideology social influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role does faith play in your life?
  • How can societies balance freedom of belief with safeguarding against extremism?
A Different Perspective

Faith can also provide community and meaning for many.

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