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.

Beware of the man of one book.

Beware of the man of one book.

We send missionaries to China so the Chinese can get to heaven, but we won't let them into our country.

We send missionaries to China so the Chinese can get to heaven, but we won't let them into our country.

In every country and every age, the priest has been hostile to Liberty.

In every country and every age, the priest has been hostile to Liberty.

Thoughts are the shadows of our feelings - always darker, emptier and simpler.

Thoughts are the shadows of our feelings - always darker, emptier and simpler.

Sermons are like pie-crust, the shorter the better.

Sermons are like pie-crust, the shorter the better.

Many have quarreled about religion that never practiced it.

Many have quarreled about religion that never practiced it.

We are born believing. A man bears beliefs, as a tree bears apples.

We are born believing. A man bears beliefs, as a tree bears apples.

My mind is my own church.

My mind is my own church.