In politics, as in religion, it is equally absurd to aim at making proselytes by fire and sword. Heresies in either can rarely be cured by persecution.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Hamilton says forcing beliefs through violence or persecution never works in politics or religion.
- In plain terms
- You cannot force people to change beliefs by force.
- What can you take from it?
- Persecution does not cure differing opinions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do beliefs spread?
- Is force ever justified?
Another view
Some groups still use force to spread beliefs.
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