Cult Quote by Robert A. Heinlein
“It is a truism that almost any sect, cult, or religion will legislate its creed into law if it acquires the political power to do so.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Stranger in a Strange Land, 1961
Power tends to codify any belief system into law when it gains authority.
In simple terms: Power turns belief into law.
Key Takeaway
Watch for power's effect on ideology.
Themes
politics
religion
law
power
authority
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- government policy
- religious movements
- civil rights
- legislative processes
Key Concepts
theocracy
secularism
legal theory
Questions to Reflect On
- When does power fail to impose belief?
- Can law remain neutral?
A Different Perspective
Not all groups succeed in legislating their creed.
