Shelley

,

Percy Bysshe

1792-1822

,
Freethinker

If God has spoken, why is the universe not convinced?

Queen Mab

This is the pivot upon which all religions turn: they all assume that it is in our power to believe or not to believe; whereas the mind can only believe that which it thinks true.  A human being can only be held accountable for those actions which are influenced by his will.  [But] belief is a passion, or involuntary operation of the mind …

Notes to Queen Mab, p. 114

Do you have something to add? You can contribute to the Conversation! Contribute a quote here:
Contribute A Quote