Believe Quote by Susan Jacoby
“I don't deny that religion is very healthful to a lot of people. And as long as they don't try to convert me, I have, you know, nothing - and to interfere with the rights of people to believe other religions or to not believe in any religion at all - as long as they mind their own religion - perfectly all right with me...”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Benefits of Religion” in The New York Times, 2015
She acknowledges religion’s health benefits but opposes attempts to impose beliefs, defending freedom of belief.
In simple terms: Religion can help health; respect others’ choices.
Support health benefits while protecting freedom.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public health policy
- interfaith dialogue
- rights advocacy
- personal belief
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How should societies handle religious influence on health?
- What limits should exist on religious conversion?
Balancing health benefits with secular values can be complex.