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Freedom Quote by Susan Jacoby

“They knew that the recognition of a Deity would be seized upon by fanatics and zealots as a pretext for destroying the liberty of thought.” quote by Susan Jacoby
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““They knew that the recognition of a Deity would be seized upon by fanatics and zealots as a pretext for destroying the liberty of thought.””

Susan Jacoby

About This Quote

Source Book: The Age of Anxiety, 2001

Warns that invoking a deity can be exploited by extremists to suppress free thought.

In simple terms: Religion can be misused to limit liberty.

Key Takeaway

Guard against ideological abuse.

Themes

religion politics freedom extremism

Mood

cautionary critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • policy debate
  • education
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

philosophy history propaganda

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies protect thought liberty?
  • What safeguards prevent misuse?
A Different Perspective

May generalize all religious belief as dangerous.

2.5 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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