To: Sparta
Following is a quote from John Locke's letter on toleration, written in the 17th century. While he addresses the power struggle between different Christian sects, I find it instructive that he notes the human tendency, particularly noted in the short and long term history of followers of Islam, to obtain their religious ends through the use of violence whenever they can use the civil government to their advantage. Until then they are "sleepers."
"Nevertheless, it is worthy to be observed and lamented that the most violent of these defenders of the truth, the opposers of errors, the exclaimers against schism do hardly ever let loose this their zeal for God, with which they are so warmed and inflamed, unless where they have the civil magistrate on their side. But so soon as ever court favour has given them the better end of the staff, and they begin to feel themselves the stronger, then presently peace and charity are to be laid aside. Otherwise they are religiously to be observed. Where they have not the power to carry on persecution and to become masters, there they desire to live upon fair terms and preach up toleration. When they are not strengthened with the civil power, then they can bear most patiently and unmovedly the contagion of idolatry, superstition, and heresy in their neighbourhood; of which on other occasions the interest of religion makes them to be extremely apprehensive. They do not forwardly attack those errors which are in fashion at court or are countenanced by the government. Here they can be content to spare their arguments; which yet (with their leave) is the only right method of propagating truth, which has no such way of prevailing as when strong arguments and good reason are joined with the softness of civility and good usage."
18 posted on
12/02/2002 12:42:28 PM PST by
srweaver
To: srweaver
Great quote.
22 posted on
12/02/2002 1:11:30 PM PST by
RKV
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