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Bolshevism is to be reckoned with Mohammedanism rather than with Christianity and Buddhism. Christianity and Buddhism are primarily personal religions, with mystical doctrines and a love of contemplation. Mohammedanism and Bolshevism are practical, social, unspiritual, concerned to win the empire of the world.
Bertrand Russell
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Russell distinguishes between religions that focus on personal, mystical experiences and those that seek to exert societal influence.

In this quote, Bertrand Russell discusses the nature of different belief systems, asserting that while Christianity and Buddhism primarily focus on personal spirituality and individual contemplation, Mohammedanism (Islam) and Bolshevism (communism) are more socially and politically oriented. This highlights a contrast in how these ideologies engage with the world—emphasizing action and governance over individual mystical pursuits.

Themes

BolshevismMohammedanismReligionSocialismSpirituality

In practice

Example use cases

In a debate about the impact of ideologies, one could use this quote to illustrate the differences in how various systems prioritize personal versus societal objectives.

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