“Since belief is measured by action, he who forbids us to believe religion to be true, necessarily also forbids us to act as we should if we did believe it to be true. The whole defence of religious faith hinges upon action. If the action required or inspired by the religious hypothesis is in no way different from that dictated by the naturalistic hypothesis, then religious faith is a pure superfluity, better pruned away, and controversy about its legitimacy is a piece of idle trifling, unworthy of serious minds. I myself believe, of course, that the religious hypothesis gives to the world an expression which specifically determines our reactions, and makes them in a large part unlike what they might be on a purely naturalistic scheme of belief.”

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Originally said in English.

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About William James

American psychologist and philosopher, late 19th to early 20th century. He founded functional psychology and explored the interplay between mind and body, emphasizing practical experience and individual freedom. His work on pragmatism and religious belief remains influential in both academic and personal thought.

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"Since belief is measured by action, he who forbids us to believe reli…" — William James | Daily Quotes