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When I became convinced that the universe is natural, that all the ghosts and gods are myths, there entered into my brain, into my soul, into every drop of my blood the sense, the feeling, the joy of freedom. The walls of my prison crumbled and fell. The dungeon was flooded with light and all the bolts and bars and manacles became dust.
Robert Green Ingersoll
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote expresses the liberation experienced when one lets go of superstitions and embraces a natural understanding of the universe.

In this quote, Robert Green Ingersoll conveys the profound sense of freedom that arises from rejecting supernatural beliefs and myths. He suggests that understanding the universe as a natural entity brings enlightenment and joy, as it dissolves the constraints and fears associated with traditional spiritual dogmas, allowing for a life filled with clarity and light.

Themes

FreedomNatureEnlightenmentMythsSuperstitionPhilosophy

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be shared in a discussion about scientific understanding versus superstition.

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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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