10. In the eyes of those who regard matter as the sole power in nature,
everything which cannot be explained by the
laws of matter is marvellous or supernatural; and with such, the marvellous is only
another word for superstition. With such minds religion, being founded on the
existence of an immaterial principle, is but a tissue of superstitions ; few dare to assert
this openly, but many say it in whispers, and think they save appearances by conceding
that religion is necessary for the people, and for keeping children in order. To such we
would submit the following dilemma; either the religious principle is true, or it is false ;
if it be true, it is true for all men, if it be false, it can no more be useful to the ignorant
than to the wise.
