"People go to church for the same reasons they go to a tavern: to stupefy themselves, to forget their misery, to imagine themselves, for a few minutes anyway, free and happy"

In this quote, Mikhail Bakunin is drawing a parallel between two relatively opposite places: church and a tavern. He suggests that individuals go to both places for similar reasons - to leave from their difficulties and discover short-term relief. By using the word "stupefy," Bakunin implies that individuals seek to numb their minds and forget their problems. He likewise points out the desire to imagine oneself as complimentary and pleased, even if it is only for a brief time. This quote highlights the human requirement for escapism and the desire to discover solace in locations that provide a sense of peace and flexibility.