Quote by Christopher Hitchens
Religion ends and philosophy begins, just as alchemy ends and chemistry begins and astrology ends, and astronomy begins.
Summary
This quote suggests that as knowledge and understanding progress, certain outdated or less accurate beliefs and practices are replaced by more rational and evidence-based disciplines. It implies that religion gives way to philosophy, as it seeks to provide answers through reasoning rather than faith. Similarly, alchemy is superseded by chemistry, and astrology by astronomy, as scientific methods prevail over mysticism and observation replaces speculation. The quote highlights the evolution of human understanding over time, emphasizing the advancement of structured and logical systems of thought.