The time must come inevitably when mankind shall surmount the imbecility of religion, as it has surmounted the imbecility of religion's ally, magic. It is impossible to imagine this world being really civilized so long as so much nonsense survives. In even its highest forms religion embraces concepts that run counter to all common sense. It can be defended only by making assumptions and adopting rules of logic that are never heard of in any other field of human thinking.

Summary

This quote suggests that there will come a point in time when humanity will overcome the irrationality of religion, much like it has moved beyond belief in magic. The quote contends that a truly civilized world cannot exist as long as such irrational beliefs persist. It argues that even the most sophisticated forms of religion require assumptions and adhere to rules of logic that are not seen in any other aspect of human thought. The quote implies that the progress of civilization necessitates abandoning religious notions that defy common sense.

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