First Thunder
Let it be borne in mind that all the religions of the world were born in the childhood of the race [....] Science is the religion of the matured man. In the discussion of this subject, I appeal to the mature, not to the child mind. I appeal to those who have cultivated a taste for truth—who are not easily scared, but who can “screw their courage to the sticking point” and follow to the end truth’s leading. The multitude is ever joined in its idols; let them alone. I speak to the discerning few. There is an important difference between a lecturer and an ordained preacher. The latter can command a hearing in the name of God, or in the name of the Bible. He does not have to satisfy his hearer about the reasonablenes...