You've just said a very revealing thing. Are you telling me that the only reason you don't steal and rape and murder is that you're frightened of God?
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker questions whether the only reason someone behaves morally is fear of divine punishment.
- In plain terms
- Are you only good because you fear God?
- What can you take from it?
- Moral behavior without fear deserves examination.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do we act morally?
- Is fear a valid moral foundation?
Another view
Fear may be a minor factor among many reasons for moral behavior.
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