Atheism Quote by Thomas Hobbes
“Heresy is a word which, when it is used without passion, signifies a private opinion. So the different sects of the old philosophers, Academians, Peripatetics, Epicureans, Stoics, &c., were called heresies.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Leviathan, 1651
Heresy denotes a personal belief when expressed without fervor, and various ancient philosophical schools were labeled as such.
In simple terms: Heresy = private opinion without passion;
Key Takeaway
Recognize the role of emotion in labeling ideas.
Themes
philosophy
language
belief
history
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
critical
historical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- religious discourse
- political critique
Key Concepts
Epistemology
social labeling
Questions to Reflect On
- How does passion affect what we deem heretical?
- Can neutral language reduce conflict?
A Different Perspective
Labels can suppress nuanced discussion.
