The Papacy was corrupt for whole centuries: especially from about 880 to 1050 and (with a short decent pontificate at rare intervals) 1290 to about 1660. No 'primacy' in any other organized religion has so disgraceful a record.
Joseph McCabeIf, it was natural to reason, God punishes men with eternal torment, it is surely lawful for men to use doses of it in a good cause.
Joseph McCabeNot material or economic conditions in the ordinary sense, but perverse religious ideas explain the suspension of civilization in Europe from the 5th to the 12th century, and in the Mohammedan world after the 15th century.
Joseph McCabeThe theist and the scientist are rival interpreters of nature, the one retreats as the other advances.
Joseph McCabe