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About this quote

What does it mean?
Atheism is elitist; belief in a watchful, punitive deity is popular among the masses.
In plain terms
Atheism appeals to elites, while belief in a god who punishes is popular.
What can you take from it?
Recognize how religious belief can be a tool for mass appeal.

Where it applies

  • cultural analysis
  • religious studies

Putting it to work

  • examine power dynamics in belief systems
  • promote secular education

Questions to consider

  • Why might people gravitate toward punitive deities?
  • How does class influence religious outlook?

Another view

The claim oversimplifies complex motivations for belief.

More from Maximilien Robespierre

  1. Any law which violates the inseparable rights of man is essentially unjust and tyrannical; it is not a law at all.

    Permalink to quote #17
  2. Crime butchers innocence to secure a throne, and innocence struggles with all its might against the attempts of crime.

    Permalink to quote #19
  3. Again, it may be said, that to love justice and equality the people need no great effort of virtue; it is sufficient that they love themselves.

    Permalink to quote #16

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