Man makes holy what he believes as he makes beautiful what he loves.
Ernest RenanRead
None of the miracles with which ancient histories are filled, occurred under scientific conditions. Observation never once contradicted, teaches us that miracles occur only in periods and countries in which they are believed in and before persons disposed to believe in them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that miracles are culturally and contextually bound to the beliefs of people and do not happen under scientific scrutiny.
Ernest Renan's quote reflects on the nature of miracles and how they are often perceived through the lens of cultural beliefs. He asserts that historical accounts of miraculous events are only valid in contexts where belief in such phenomena is prevalent, implying that scientific observation, which requires skepticism and rationality, does not support the claim of genuine miracles. The idea is that miracles thrive in an atmosphere of faith and are rejected by a rational, scientific approach.
Themes
MiraclesBeliefScienceCultureSkepticism
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a philosophy class discussion about the intersection of science and religion.
More from Ernest Renan
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