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72. The Decline of Religious Faith and the Loss of Confidence in Human Nature

Updated: Mar 24, 2023

In the 19th century, the loss of faith in religious beliefs had a far-reaching impact on society and culture. People began to question traditional sources of moral guidance and authority, leading to a greater emphasis on individual autonomy and the ability of people to make their own moral choices. However, at the same time, there was a loss of confidence in the human ability to act without the guidance of God.





The decline of religious faith led to a rise in pessimism about human nature, and a belief that people were not as capable as previously thought. This loss of confidence was reflected in many areas of society, including politics, science, and the arts. Many people began to view humanity as fundamentally flawed and prone to selfishness and corruption, leading to a more cynical and skeptical view of human nature.


This shift in thinking had significant consequences for society and culture. It led to a rise in pessimism and cynicism in literature, art, and philosophy, as well as in the increasing skepticism towards political and social institutions. The decline of religious faith also led to a loss of confidence in the human capacity to act without God, which had implications for the development of moral codes.


Overall, the decline of religious faith in the 19th century had a profound impact on society and culture, leading to a more pessimistic and skeptical view of human nature. While it allowed for greater individual autonomy and the ability of people to make their own moral choices, it also led to a loss of confidence in the human capacity to act without God, which had implications for the development of moral codes.

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