Religion is seldom discussed on the FM website, but plays an important role in an well-founded society. There are many levels of faith, but there is a foundation on which the edifice can securely rest: collective action against the chaotic forces of nature and man’s nature.
As described in Act II of Major Barbara, by George Bernard Shaw. Cusins is a young man, a scholar. Undershaft is co-owner of a great munitions manufacturer.
CUSINS: I am quite genuinely interested in the views of the Salvation Army. The fact is, I am a sort of collector of religions; and the curious thing is that I find I can believe them all. By the way, have you any religion?
UNDERSHAFT: Yes.
CUSINS: Anything out of the common?
UNDERSHAFT: Only that there are two things necessary to Salvation.
CUSINS: [disappointed, but polite] Ah, the Church Catechism.
UNDERSHAFT: The two things are–
CUSINS: Baptism and–
UNDERSHAFT. No. Money and gunpowder.
CUSINS: [surprised, but interested] That is the general opinion of our governing classes. The novelty is in hearing any man confess it.
UNDERSHAFT: Just so.
CUSINS: Excuse me: is there any place in your religion for honor, justice, truth, love, mercy and so forth?
UNDERSHAFT: Yes: they are the graces and luxuries of a rich, strong, and safe life.
CUSINS: Suppose one is forced to choose between them and money or gunpowder?
UNDERSHAFT: Choose money and gunpowder; for without enough of both you cannot afford the others.
CUSINS: That is your religion?
UNDERSHAFT: Yes.
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