"Disturbances in society are never more fearful than when those who are stirring up the trouble can use the pretext of religion to mask their true designs"

This quote by Denis Diderot speaks to the power of religion in society as well as exactly how it can be utilized to control individuals. He is advising that when those with harmful intent use religious beliefs as a pretext for their activities, it can be especially hazardous. Religion can be a powerful device for those who want to stir up problem, as it can be used to manipulate people's beliefs and also feelings. It can be made use of to justify physical violence and oppression, and to produce departments between individuals. Diderot is alerting that when religion is utilized by doing this, it can result in wonderful agitation and suffering in society. He is prompting us to be knowledgeable about the possibility for faith to be used as a tool for control and to be vigilant in safeguarding versus it.