"It is as absurd to argue men, as to torture them, into believing"

John Henry Newman's quote is a powerful declaration about the power of persuasion and the value of respecting specific beliefs. He is suggesting that it is incorrect to attempt to force somebody to believe something, as it is wrong to physically abuse them. He is stressing that beliefs must be formed through logical thought and discussion, not through browbeating or violence. He is likewise recommending that beliefs must be respected, even if they vary from one's own. This quote is a tip that everybody deserves to their own beliefs which it is wrong to try to force someone to think something they do not. It is necessary to keep in mind that beliefs ought to be formed through open dialogue and understanding, not through force or violence.