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And Now, Your Moment of Reason

Today I start a regular series where I provide you, whether you want it or not, with a quote from history on the subject of religion.

"What influence in fact have Christian ecclesiastical establishments had on civil society? In many instances they have been upholding the thrones of political tyranny. In no instance have they been seen as the guardians of the liberties of the people. Rulers who wished to subvert the public liberty have found in the clergy convenient auxiliaries. A just government, instituted to secure and perpetuate liberty, does not need the clergy." - James Madison, the 4th President of the USA.

The founding fathers of the USA were very outspoken in their desire to distance religion and government. It was enshrined in their constitution because they believed religion was a tool for repression and ignorance, and was the antithesis to the nation they were trying to build; one based on reason, justice and personal liberty.

Madison's last line "A just government, instituted to secure and perpetuate liberty, does not need the clergy" should replace "In god we trust" on American dollar bills.

Maybe an unjust government needs the clergy.

I used up some great quotes in this post.

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This entry was posted on August 20, 2006 at 11:43 AM. You can skip to the end and leave a response.

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