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About this quote

What does it mean?
Sinclair claims that fear is the foundational element behind the study of any religion.
In plain terms
He says studying any religion shows it is built on fear.
What can you take from it?
Fear often underlies religious beliefs and practices across cultures.

Where it applies

  • comparative religion
  • psychological analysis
  • philosophical debate

Putting it to work

  • examining motivations behind belief
  • critiquing dogma

Questions to consider

  • Is fear the only source of religious belief?
  • How do other motivations like love or curiosity factor in?

Another view

It reduces complex spiritual experiences to a single emotional motive.

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