Bunch together a group of people deliberately chosen for strong religious feelings, and you have a practical guarantee of dark morbidities expressed in crime, perversion, and insanity.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote suggests a provocative perspective on the potential consequences of assembling a group of individuals selected specifically for their fervent religious convictions. At its core, the statement insinuates that the intentional gathering of such individuals might inadvertently lead to a manifestation of unsettling phenomena characterized by criminal behavior, perversion, and mental instability. To unravel the intricate layers of this assertion, one must delve into the complexities of human psychology, social dynamics, and the multifaceted nature of religious fervor.
The quote implies that when a cohort is deliberately composed of individuals bound by intense religious sentiments, a distinct and peculiar set of circumstances emerges. It presupposes that the collective strength of their religious convictions, when concentrated, may paradoxically serve as a catalyst for darker aspects of human behavior. To comprehend this perspective, it is essential to recognize that the statement is not an outright condemnation of religious beliefs; rather, it sheds light on the potential consequences of intentionally assembling a group unified by a fervent adherence to religious doctrines.
Religious fervor, when amplified within a communal setting, has the capacity to create a tightly-knit and insular environment. This environment, while fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose, may also inadvertently amplify certain psychological tendencies within the group. The quote suggests that the deliberate selection of individuals with strong religious feelings could lead to a concentration of psychological factors that may contribute to the emergence of what the author terms as "dark morbidities."
The term "dark morbidities" encompasses a range of negative outcomes, including crime, perversion, and insanity. By invoking these specific manifestations, the quote implies that the intensified religious fervor within the group might act as a catalyst for behaviors that deviate from societal norms. It raises questions about the interplay between religious zeal and the potential for individuals to exhibit criminal tendencies, engage in perverse activities, or experience mental instability when placed in a collective setting.
One interpretation of the quote suggests that the heightened religious fervor within the group may create an environment where individuals feel justified in transgressing societal norms, whether through criminal acts, deviations from accepted moral standards (perversion), or a decline in mental well-being (insanity). This interpretation invites reflection on the delicate balance between the positive aspects of religious conviction, such as community cohesion and moral guidance, and the potential negative consequences that may arise when fervor becomes excessively concentrated.
In essence, the quote serves as a cautionary observation about the potential risks associated with intentionally assembling a group of individuals characterized by intense religious feelings. It prompts contemplation on the intricate interplay between individual psychology, communal dynamics, and the nuanced impact of religious fervor on human behavior. While not a blanket condemnation of religious beliefs, the quote urges a thoughtful examination of the potential consequences that may arise when fervent convictions are deliberately concentrated within a group context.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Bunch together a group of people deliberately chosen for strong religious feelings, and you have a practical guarantee of dark morbidities expressed in crime, perversion, and insanity." is often attributed to H. P. Lovecraft (Quotes). H. P. Lovecraft was a pioneering writer of cosmic horror fiction, whose tales continue to inspire fear and fascination.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
