When we debunk a fanatical faith or prejudice, we do not strike at the root of fanaticism. We merely prevent read more

When we debunk a fanatical faith or prejudice, we do not strike at the root of fanaticism. We merely prevent its leaking out at a certain point, with the likely result that it will leak out at some other point. Thus by denigrating prevailing beliefs and loyalties, the militant man of words unwittingly creates in the disillusioned masses a hunger for faith. For the majority of people cannot endure the barrenness and futility of their lives unless they have some ardent dedication, or some passionate pursuit in which they can lose themselves. Thus, in spite of himself, the scoffing man of words becomes the precursor of a new faith.

I feel no need for any other faith than my faith in the kindness of human beings. I am so read more

I feel no need for any other faith than my faith in the kindness of human beings. I am so absorbed in the wonder of earth and the life upon it that I cannot think of heaven and angels.

If "everybody knows" such-and-such, then it ain't so, by at least ten thousand to one.

If "everybody knows" such-and-such, then it ain't so, by at least ten thousand to one.

To say nothing of its holiness or authority, the Bible contains more specimens of genius and taste than any other read more

To say nothing of its holiness or authority, the Bible contains more specimens of genius and taste than any other volume in existence.

Prayer does not change God, but it changes him who prays.

Prayer does not change God, but it changes him who prays.

When men have gone so far as to talk as though their idols have come to life, it is time read more

When men have gone so far as to talk as though their idols have come to life, it is time that someone broke them.

Gods are fragile things; they may be killed by a whiff of science or a dose of common sense.

Gods are fragile things; they may be killed by a whiff of science or a dose of common sense.

The object of opening the mind as of opening the mouth is to close it again on something solid.

The object of opening the mind as of opening the mouth is to close it again on something solid.

All things are inconstant except the faith in the soul, which changes all things and fills their inconstancy with light, read more

All things are inconstant except the faith in the soul, which changes all things and fills their inconstancy with light, but though I seem to be driven out of my country as a misbeliever I have found no man yet with a faith like mine.