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This crime called blasphemy was invented by priests for the purpose of defending doctrines not able to take care of themselves.
Robert Green Ingersoll
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Blasphemy is a construct created by religious leaders to protect fragile beliefs.

In this quote, Robert Green Ingersoll argues that the concept of blasphemy is artificially constructed by religious authorities as a means to safeguard their doctrines. He suggests that rather than being inherently sacred, these beliefs require external protection because they are not robust enough to withstand scrutiny or challenge. This perspective prompts individuals to question the validity and resilience of established doctrines in the face of critical examination.

Themes

BlasphemyReligionDoctrineBeliefCriticism

In practice

Example use cases

In a debate about religious freedom, this quote can emphasize the protection of beliefs that are weak.

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I will follow my logic, no matter where it goes, after it has consulted with my heart. If you ever come to a conclusion without calling the heart in, you will come to a bad conclusion.
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If the guardians of society, the protectors of 'young persons,' could have had their way, we should have known nothing of Byron or Shelley. The voices that thrill the world would now be silent.
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The religion that has to be supported by law is without value, not only, but a fraud and a curse. The religious argument that has to be supported by a musket is hardly worth making.
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There is no slavery but ignorance.
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In all ages the people have honored those who dishonored them. They have worshiped their destroyers; they have canonized the most gigantic liars, and buried the great thieves in marble and gold. Under the loftiest monuments sleeps the dust of murder.
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I believe that there is something far nobler than loyalty to any particular man. Loyalty to the truth as we perceive it - loyalty to our duty as we know it - loyalty to the ideals of our brain and heart - is, to my mind, far greater and far nobler than loyalty to the life of any particular man or God. . . .
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