How can you have order in a state without religion? For, when one man is dying of hunger near another who is ill of surfeit, he cannot resign himself to this difference unless there is an authority which declares, 'God wills it thus.' Religion is excellent stuff for keeping people quiet.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Religion can justify social inequality by framing it as divine will, thus maintaining order.
- In plain terms
- Religion helps people accept unfairness by saying it is God's plan.
- What can you take from it?
- Religion can stabilize society by justifying inequality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does faith justify status quo?
- Can religion inspire rebellion?
Another view
Religion also motivates movements that challenge inequality.
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