"Democratic societies can no longer give religious fanatics a free hand to abuse and murder non believers. Such action betrays contempt for the basic human rights which animate any democracy with meaning"

Armstrong Williams' quote underscores a crucial tension in democratic societies between the values of religious freedom and the protection of fundamental human rights. At its core, the statement advocates for a re-evaluation of the level to which societies allow spiritual ideologies to infringe upon specific liberties and safety.

In democratic contexts, freedom of religion is a fundamental concept, making sure that individuals can practice their faith without persecution. However, Williams highlights a prospective mistake when spiritual eagerness morphs into fanaticism that seeks to enforce ideologies by violent ways or through injustice of dissenters, identifying them 'non-believers.' In this regard, he seems to argue that extremist habits, even if consistently inspired, need to not be tolerated if they violate basic human rights-- particularly, the rights to life, liberty, and security.

When Williams refers to "contempt for the basic human rights", he is asserting that enabling religious fanaticism to go unattended effectively undermines the core human rights that offer democracy its essence and authenticity. In democratic societies, the guideline of law and the security of human rights are vital. Therefore, any ideology or action that threatens these principles must be dealt with.

Williams' argument invites reflection on how democracies can stabilize protecting religious expression while ensuring that this liberty does not become a shield for acts of violence or browbeating. It suggests a call to action for democratic societies to develop clear boundaries where religious practices need to appreciate and promote the dignity and rights of every person, regardless of their faith or absence thereof.

In essence, the quote challenges democracies to remain alert and proactive in securing human rights from religious extremism, therefore verifying the values that specify and sustain democratic systems-- chief amongst them being tolerance, equality, and justice for all people.