Apes Quote by Sam Harris
“Some ... sexist evil probably predates religion and can be ascribed to our biology, but there is no question that religion promulgates and renders sacrosanct attitudes toward women that would be unseemly in a brachiating ape.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: "The End of Faith" podcast, 2015
The statement argues that sexist attitudes likely predate religion, but religion amplifies and sanctifies misogyny, making it more entrenched than natural biological tendencies.
In simple terms: Sexist views may be older than religion, yet religion strengthens them.
Key Takeaway
Question how belief systems reinforce gender bias.
Themes
gender
religion
biology
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- policy making
- education
- activism
Key Concepts
feminism
social ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do cultural and religious narratives shape gender roles?
- Can secular societies eliminate ingrained sexism?
A Different Perspective
Religious explanations can be diverse; not all faiths promote misogyny.
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