The problem with those who choose received Authority over fact and logic is how they choose which part of Authority to obey. The Bible famously contradicts itself at many points (I have never understood why any Christian would choose the Old Testament over the New), and the Koran can be read as a wonderfully compassionate and humanistic document. Which suggests that the problem of fundamentalism lies not with authority, but with ourselves.

Molly Ivins (1944-2007) American writer, political columnist [Mary Tyler Ivins]

Creators Syndicate column (27 Jun 2000)

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