It is in books, poems, paintings which often give us the confidence to take seriously feelings in ourselves that we might otherwise never have thought to acknowledge.
Alain De BottonRead
We may not agree with what religions are trying to teach us, but we can admire the institutional way in which they're doing it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote underscores the importance of appreciating the structures and methods used by religions, even if their teachings are disagreed with.
Alain De Botton highlights the complexity of religious teachings and recognizes that, while individuals may not personally align with the beliefs presented by various religions, there is value in acknowledging the significant and organized manner in which these beliefs are disseminated. This perspective encourages a respectful examination of the ways in which institutions shape and influence human thought and community life, regardless of personal belief systems.
Themes
ReligionTeachingsInstitutionsAdmiration
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about how different cultures approach spirituality, this quote can highlight the importance of understanding the structure of religions.
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Good books put a finger on emotions that are deeply our own - but that we could never have described on our own.
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It is the most ambitious and driven among us who are the most sorely in need of having our reckless hopes dampened through immersive dousings in the darkness which religions have explored. This is a particular priority for secular Americans, perhaps the most anxious and disappointed people on earth, for their nation infuses them with the most extreme hopes about what they may be able to achieve in their working lives and relationships.
Alain De BottonRead
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