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Belief Quote by Tom Robbins

“Society in general maintains such a vested interested in its cozy habits and solidified belief systems that it had rather die - or kill - than entertain change. Consider how threatened religious fundamentalists of all faiths remain to this day by science in general and Darwin in particular.” quote by Tom Robbins
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“Society in general maintains such a vested interested in its cozy habits and solidified belief systems that it had rather die - or kill - than entertain change. Consider how threatened religious fundamentalists of all faiths remain to this day by science in general and Darwin in particular.”

Tom Robbins

About This Quote

Source Essay: The New Yorker, “The End of Comfort”, 2018

Society clings to familiar habits and beliefs, resisting change even to the point of self-destruction, especially when challenged by scientific ideas like evolution.

In simple terms: People fear change and protect old beliefs, even if it harms them.

Key Takeaway

Question your assumptions and stay open to new evidence.

Themes

conformity tradition fear of change science vs belief fundamentalism

Mood

anxious defensive reflective

Type

critical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • religious debates
  • education reform
  • personal growth
  • media narratives

Key Concepts

cognitive bias social inertia identity threat

Questions to Reflect On

  • What belief do you hold that resists new information?
  • How can societies balance tradition with progress?
A Different Perspective

Change can be painful and may threaten identity, causing backlash.

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