Accomplishment Quote by Thomas Paine
“The evil that has resulted from the error of the schools, in teaching natural philosophy as an accomplishment only, has been that of generating in the pupils a species of atheism. Instead of looking through the works of creation to the Creator himself, they stop short, and employ the knowledge they acquire to create doubts of his existence. They labour with studied ingenuity to ascribe every thing they behold to innate properties of matter, and jump over all the rest by saying, that matter is eternal.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Age of Reason, Thomas Paine, 1794
The quote argues that teaching science as purely material achievement breeds atheism by ignoring the spiritual implications of creation.
In simple terms: Teaching science without spiritual context can lead to doubt in God.
Key Takeaway
Consider integrating wonder and purpose in education.
Themes
education
science
faith
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
critical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
reflective
educational
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- religious studies
- parental guidance
- public discourse
Key Concepts
materialism
atheism
skepticism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can educators balance empirical teaching with openness to metaphysics?
- Does questioning belief diminish or enrich understanding?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook genuine scientific inquiry that doesn't need religious framing.
