It is the natural tendency of the ignorant to believe what is not true. In order to overcome that tendency it is not sufficient to exhibit the true; it is also necessary to expose and denounce the false. To admit that the false has any standing in court, that it ought to be handled gently because millions of morons cherish it and thousands of quacks make their livings propagating it–to admit this, as the more fatuous of the reconcilers of science and religion inevitably do, is to abandon a just cause to its enemies, cravenly and without excuse. H.l. Mencken
About This Quote

Bertrand Russell was a prominent philosopher and mathematician. He was also a socialist during his time. In the above quote, he is making a statement about religion and science, which has been a polarizing issue in the public sphere. For example, people of faith have been upset by the theory of evolution because it does not allow for God to have played any role in creating life on Earth.

This quote shows that Russell did not believe that there was any room in science for religion and faith. Science and reason should not be used as an excuse to avoid confronting or denouncing false ideas in both religion and politics.

Source: American Mercury

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More Quotes By H.l. Mencken
  1. We loved with a love that was more than love.
  2. From childhood's hour I have not been. As others were, I have not seen. As others saw, I could not awaken. My heart to joy at the same tone. And all I loved, I loved alone.
  3. It was many and many a year ago, In a kingdom by the sea, That a maiden there lived whom you may know By the name of ANNABEL LEE;And this maiden she lived with no other thought Than to love and be loved by me....
  4. The best things in life make you sweaty.
  5. And all I loved, I loved alone.
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