Absurd Quote by Sam Harris
“While religious tolerance is surely better than religious war, tolerance is not without its liabilities. Our fear of provoking religious hatred has rendered us incapable of criticizing ideas that are now patently absurd and increasingly maladaptive.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The End of Faith, Sam Harris, 2004
Tolerance can prevent criticism of harmful ideas, allowing absurdities to persist and hinder progress.
In simple terms: Tolerance may block critique of harmful beliefs.
Balance openness with critical scrutiny.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- policy making
- media commentary
- public education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we critique ideas without inciting hatred?
- When does tolerance become complicity?
Excessive tolerance can enable harmful ideologies to spread unchecked.