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About this quote

What does it mean?
Russell argues that both Bolshevism and the Catholic Church oppose free intellect, which he sees as essential for progress.
In plain terms
He thinks both communism and the Church block free thinking.
What can you take from it?
Protect intellectual freedom to advance society.

Where it applies

  • debating political systems
  • critiquing religious influence

Putting it to work

  • advocating secular education
  • supporting free speech

Questions to consider

  • What role should religion play in public life?
  • Can any political system fully respect free intellect?

Another view

He equates very different movements, which may oversimplify their complexities.

More from Bertrand Russell

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  3. It is preoccupation with possession, more than anything else, that prevents men from living freely and nobly.

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