"J'ai toujours pensé que la religion n'a rien d'utile à nous apprendre"

The core idea here is that the speaker believes religion doesn’t provide any practical knowledge or benefits. This perspective comes from a viewpoint that sees religion as lacking in tangible teachings that apply to real-world situations.

Historically, this sentiment has been expressed by figures who advocate for secularism, scientific reasoning, or humanism. They argue that the explanations and guidelines offered by religion are either outdated or not grounded in empirical evidence. A well-known proponent of this viewpoint is Richard Dawkins, an evolutionary biologist, who has often critiqued religion’s role in society.

Now, let’s take a real-life example. Imagine a doctor working in a modern hospital. They rely on years of medical training, scientific research, and empirical data to treat their patients. From diagnosing illnesses to performing surgeries, every step they take is based on the latest medical knowledge and techniques. In this scenario, religious teachings don’t contribute directly to the practical knowledge required for their profession. The doctor’s skills and decisions are informed by science and evidence, not religious doctrine.

If you’re considering how to apply this viewpoint to your own life, think about focusing on evidence-based practices. In your career or personal development, seek out information and advice that’s backed by data and proven outcomes. For instance, if you’re trying to improve your health, look into scientifically supported diet and exercise plans rather than relying on faith-based remedies.

Imagine you’re at a crossroads in your career. You have two job offers. One is with a cutting-edge tech company that emphasizes innovation and data-driven decisions. The other is with a company that has a strong religious foundation, making decisions based more on faith and tradition than on market research or technological advancements. If you lean towards the belief that practical, evidence-based knowledge is key, you’d likely choose the tech company. Why? Because their approach aligns with a modern, empirical understanding of the world – they use data and evidence to innovate and solve problems.

In a more relatable everyday scenario, think about parenting. You want to teach your kids about the world. You might prefer to explain things based on scientific facts and observable evidence. For example, instead of saying, "Lightning is the gods being angry," you explain it as a natural electrical discharge caused by imbalances between storm clouds and the ground. This way, your child learns about the natural world in a way that’s consistent with observable reality.

In a nutshell, this perspective encourages us to value knowledge that’s practical, testable, and grounded in reality. It’s about seeking out information that helps us understand and navigate the world in concrete ways. So next time you’re faced with a decision or a problem, ask yourself: what does the evidence say? This approach doesn’t dismiss the personal or cultural significance of religion, but it does prioritize practical knowledge for navigating day-to-day challenges.