Quotes With Meaning
As long as a population can be induced to believe in a supernatural hereafter, it can be oppressed and controlled. People will put up with all sorts of tyranny, poverty, and painful treatment if they're convinced that they'll eventually escape to some resort in the sky where lifeguards are superfluous and the pool never closes. Moreover, the faithful are usually willing to risk their skins in whatever military adventure their government may currently be promoting.
As long as a population can be induced to believe in a supernatural hereafter, it can be oppressed and controlled. People will put up with all sorts of tyranny, poverty, and painful treatment if they're convinced that they'll eventually escape to some resort in the sky where lifeguards are superfluous and the pool never closes. Moreover, the faithful are usually willing to risk their skins in whatever military adventure their government may currently be promoting.
This quote highlights how belief in an afterlife can be used to manipulate people. When individuals are convinced that suffering in this life will lead to a better existence after death, they may tolerate oppression, poverty, and even violence without question. Tom Robbins points out that this mindset can make them more compliant and willing to participate in military conflicts, as the promise of an ideal afterlife can outweigh their immediate hardships. The quote invites reflection on the power of belief systems and their impact on human behavior, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and awareness in the face of authority. Recognizing this can inspire individuals to seek freedom and personal growth instead of resigning to despair.