Quotes With Meaning
When...did it become irrational to dislike religion, any religion, even to dislike it vehemently? When did reason get redescribed as unreason? When were the fairy stories of the superstitious placed above criticism, beyond satire? A religion was not a race. It was an idea, and ideas stood (or fell) because they were strong enough (or too weak) to withstand criticism, not because they were shielded from it. Strong ideas welcomed dissent.
When...did it become irrational to dislike religion, any religion, even to dislike it vehemently? When did reason get redescribed as unreason? When were the fairy stories of the superstitious placed above criticism, beyond satire? A religion was not a race. It was an idea, and ideas stood (or fell) because they were strong enough (or too weak) to withstand criticism, not because they were shielded from it. Strong ideas welcomed dissent.
This quote questions the current societal norms around discussing and critiquing religion. Rushdie argues that it has become unreasonable to express strong dislike for any religion, as if such feelings are irrational. He highlights how criticism of religious beliefs should be welcomed, as ideas must be able to stand up to scrutiny in order to be strong. By equating religion with race, he suggests that society has incorrectly placed religious beliefs beyond criticism, thereby protecting them from rational debate. This perspective emphasizes that healthy discourse is essential for the growth of ideas. Ultimately, Rushdie advocates for the freedom to challenge and question beliefs, asserting that a robust mindset thrives on dissent and debate.