Single Idea 20719

[catalogued under 29. Religion / B. Monotheistic Religion / 4. Christianity / a. Christianity]

Full Idea

The rule of the Catholic church is 'punishing the heretic, but indulgent of the sinner'.

Gist of Idea

Punish the heretic, but be indulgent to the sinner

Source

Max Weber (The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism [1904], 1)

Book Reference

Weber,Max: 'Protestant Ethic and Spirit of Capitalism' [Routledge 2001], p.4


A Reaction

Weber cites this as if it is a folklore saying. It seems to fit the teachings of Jesus, who is intensely keen on unwavering faith, but very kind to those who stray morally. Hence Graham Greene novels, all about sinners.