"All religions have based morality on obedience, that is to say, on voluntary slavery. That is why they have always been more pernicious than any political organization. For the latter makes use of violence, the former - of the corruption of the will"
- Alexander Herzen
About this Quote
Alexander Herzen's quote recommends that all religious beliefs have actually been founded on the concept of obedience, which is basically voluntary slavery. He thinks that this is more damaging than any political organization, as it damages the will of its fans rather than using violence. Herzen implies that this is a more insidious kind of control, as it is based upon the concept of submission instead of force. He believes that this is a more hazardous type of control, as it can lead to individuals giving up their autonomy and liberty of choice. He recommends that this is a more unsafe type of control, as it can result in individuals quiting their autonomy and freedom of option, and rather following the determines of a religious beliefs. This can lead to individuals ending up being more susceptible to manipulation and exploitation, as they are no longer in control of their own choices. Herzen's quote is a caution against the risks of spiritual control, and a suggestion of the significance of keeping autonomy and liberty of choice.
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