“Superstition is to religion what astrology is to astronomy the mad daughter of a wise mother. These daughters have too long dominated the earth.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“Superstition is to religion what astrology is to astronomy the mad daughter of a wise mother. These daughters have too long dominated the earth.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s Enlightenment-era critique of superstition and its impact on society, while distinguishing it from the more rational core of religion. Voltaire compares superstition to a distorted offshoot of religion, much as astrology misrepresents and oversimplifies the scientific principles of astronomy. By calling these “daughters” mad, he highlights how such distortions have historically led to irrational behavior, fear, and the suppression of knowledge. The assertion that they have “too long dominated the earth” suggests a call for enlightenment, reason, and the rejection of baseless beliefs.
In a modern context, this quote resonates in ongoing discussions about the distinction between faith and dogma. While religion often offers moral guidance and community, superstition can lead to fear-driven actions and hinder progress. For instance, practices rooted in superstition, such as unfounded health remedies or harmful rituals, can still influence societies today, demonstrating the relevance of Voltaire’s critique.
A specific example can be seen in the tension between scientific understanding and pseudoscience. Movements promoting critical thinking, scientific literacy, and the separation of belief from evidence-based reasoning echo Voltaire’s call to overcome the domination of superstition. His words remain a powerful reminder to question inherited ideas and prioritize reason and knowledge in navigating the complexities of the modern world.
