The most savage controversies are those about matters as to which there is no good evidence either way. Persecution is used in theology, not in arithmetic, because in arithmetic there is knowledge, but in theology there is only opinion.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The worst disputes lack evidence; persecution occurs in theology, not arithmetic, because theology deals with opinion, not knowledge.
- In plain terms
- He notes that theology fights over opinions, while arithmetic has knowledge, making theological disputes especially savage.
- What can you take from it?
- Disagreements without evidence become vicious, especially in belief systems.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How can we reduce conflict in belief domains?
- When is disagreement productive?
Another view
Some theological matters involve lived experience beyond pure logic.
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