“Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from religious conviction”
— Blaise Pascal
Simplified Meaning:
People often act in very harmful ways when they truly believe they are doing so for religious reasons. They might think they are carrying out the will of a higher power, making them feel justified and even happy about their actions, no matter how bad they might be. For instance, during the Crusades in history, many Christians fought and killed in the name of their faith, believing they were doing good. This sense of righteousness can blind people to the harm they are causing, making them act without guilt or doubt. To avoid this, individuals should always question their motives and the impact of their actions, ensuring they do not harm others, even if they think their reasons are noble. This reflection can lead to more compassionate and understanding behavior towards others.
