At the core of every moral code there is a picture of human nature, a map of the universe, and read more

At the core of every moral code there is a picture of human nature, a map of the universe, and a version of history. To human nature (of the sort conceived), in a universe (of the kind imagined), after a history (so understood), the rules of the code apply.

When we debunk a fanatical faith or prejudice, we do not strike at the root of fanaticism. We merely prevent read more

When we debunk a fanatical faith or prejudice, we do not strike at the root of fanaticism. We merely prevent its leaking out at a certain point, with the likely result that it will leak out at some other point. Thus by denigrating prevailing beliefs and loyalties, the militant man of words unwittingly creates in the disillusioned masses a hunger for faith. For the majority of people cannot endure the barrenness and futility of their lives unless they have some ardent dedication, or some passionate pursuit in which they can lose themselves. Thus, in spite of himself, the scoffing man of words becomes the precursor of a new faith.

Either God is in the whole of nature, with no gaps, or He's not there at all.

Either God is in the whole of nature, with no gaps, or He's not there at all.

There is only one good, knowledge, and one evil, ignorance.

There is only one good, knowledge, and one evil, ignorance.

It is not the fact that a person has riches that keeps them from heaven, but the fact that riches read more

It is not the fact that a person has riches that keeps them from heaven, but the fact that riches have them.

If "everybody knows" such-and-such, then it ain't so, by at least ten thousand to one.

If "everybody knows" such-and-such, then it ain't so, by at least ten thousand to one.

Practical prayer is harder on the soles of your shoes than on the knees of your trousers.

Practical prayer is harder on the soles of your shoes than on the knees of your trousers.

How can one better magnify the Almighty than by sniggering with him at his little jokes, particularly the poorer ones.

How can one better magnify the Almighty than by sniggering with him at his little jokes, particularly the poorer ones.

Morality is of the highest importance - but for us, not for God.

Morality is of the highest importance - but for us, not for God.