Anti-religious sneers are a hallmark of perpetual adolescents.

In this quote, Camille Paglia asserts that anti-religious attitudes, particularly those expressed through sneers or mocking comments, are characteristic of perpetual adolescents—people who are emotionally and intellectually immature. Paglia suggests that dismissing or mocking religion without thoughtful consideration is a sign of immaturity rather than intellectual sophistication. To her, those who resort to cynical or dismissive views on religion are displaying a lack of maturity, suggesting that they have not yet fully grappled with the complexities of life, spirituality, or their own beliefs. The term "perpetual adolescents" implies a failure to grow beyond superficial or rebellious attitudes, which she sees as characteristic of adolescence.

Paglia's statement can also be interpreted as a critique of the contempt many modern thinkers, particularly those in intellectual circles, have for religion. She seems to argue that rather than offering nuanced critiques or engaging with religious traditions in a serious way, many anti-religious individuals simply adopt a stance of cynicism or mockery. According to Paglia, this response shows a lack of respect for the historical and cultural significance of religion, which has shaped civilizations and provided moral frameworks for centuries.

Moreover, the quote reflects Paglia’s larger worldview, where she frequently emphasizes the importance of maturity and the need to confront both the physical and psychological aspects of human existence. In her work, she often critiques modern society's tendency to reject or overly simplify complex issues, including religion. Paglia believes that engaging with these deep subjects requires a certain level of intellectual maturity, and those who simply sneer at them are not engaging in meaningful dialogue, but rather showing a childish or rebellious impulse.

The origin of this quote comes from Camille Paglia, an American cultural critic, author, and academic best known for her provocative views on subjects like gender, sexuality, and culture. Throughout her career, Paglia has been an outspoken critic of modern feminism, intellectualism, and social norms, often championing a more pagan, non-orthodox view of the world. Her critique of anti-religious sneers fits with her broader stance on intellectual engagement, where she advocates for confronting difficult ideas with respect and maturity, rather than dismissing them outright.