Discounts Quote by Steven Pinker
“The doctrine of the sacredness of the soul sounds vaguely uplifting, but in fact is highly malignant. It discounts life on earth as just a temporary phase that people pass through, indeed, an infinitesimal fraction of their existence…the gradual replacement of lives for souls as the locus of moral value was helped along by the ascendency of skepticism and reason”
About This Quote
Source Book: Enlightenment Now, Steven Pinker, 2018
The belief that souls are sacred can devalue earthly life, making it seem fleeting and less important.
In simple terms: Soul sacredness can diminish earthly value.
Key Takeaway
Balance spiritual and material values.
Themes
spirituality
value
life
morality
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- environmental activism
- medical ethics
- daily decision‑making
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
existentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you honor both soul and life?
- What responsibilities arise from seeing life as temporary?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on soul may ignore tangible responsibilities.
