Science is a way to not fool ourselves.
Carl SaganRead
The fact is that far more crime and child abuse has been committed by zealots in the name of God, Jesus and Mohammed than has ever been committed in the name of Satan. Many people don’t like that statement, but few can argue with it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote critiques the misuse of religion to justify violence and abuse.
Carl Sagan's quote suggests that throughout history, acts of violence and child abuse have often been committed by fervent believers acting in the name of God, Jesus, and Mohammed, rather than by those who might identify with Satan. It points to the alarming reality that zealotry can lead to justifying immoral actions, challenging the notion that evil primarily stems from those who oppose religious beliefs.
Themes
CrimeZealotryReligionAbusePhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion on the influence of religion in history, this quote can be used to illustrate the dangers of religious zealotry.
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