Able Quote by Terry Pratchett
“Dwarfs were not a naturally religious species, but in a world where pit props could crack without warning and pockets of fire damp could suddenly explode they'd seen the need for gods as the sort of supernatural equivalent of a hard hat. Besides, when you hit your thumb with an eight-pound hammer it's nice to be able to blaspheme. It takes a very special and strong-minded kind of atheist to jump up and down with their hand clasped under their other armpit and shout, "Oh, random-fluctuations-in-the-space-time-continuum!" or "Aaargh, primitive-and-outmoded-concept on a crutch!”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Discworld series, 1990s
The passage humorously portrays dwarfs creating gods as practical safety tools, reflecting how societies invent belief systems for protection and coping.
In simple terms: Dwarfs make gods like safety gear.
Key Takeaway
Recognize belief as a coping mechanism.
Themes
belief
practicality
humor
Mood
witty
critical
Type
satirical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- workplace safety
- stress relief
- creative problem solving
- religious critique
Key Concepts
mythology
psychology
cultural adaptation
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do people turn to belief in uncertain times?
- What role does humor play in critiquing religion?
A Different Perspective
It may trivialize genuine spiritual experiences.
![“[Music] business can drive you to do that if you don't have it here. If you're not strong-minded here, it could steer you the wrong way and when it steers you the wrong way, then it might take forever to get back.” quote by Bow Wow](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6ba/bow-wow-5017_business_music-business-can-drive-you-to-do-that_317232.jpg)
