Even the weakest disputant is made so conceited by what he calls religion, as to think himself wiser than the wisest who think differently from him.

The quote "Even the weakest disputant is made so conceited by what he calls religion, as to think himself wiser than the wisest who think differently from him" by Walter Savage Landor criticizes how some individuals, when cloaked in the authority of religion, develop an inflated sense of superiority. Landor suggests that even those with the least intellectual strength can become arrogant when they claim their beliefs are backed by divine truth. This conceit comes from the conviction that religious convictions give them exclusive access to wisdom, making them dismissive of anyone who holds a differing view, no matter how educated or rational the opposing opinion may be.

Landor's words point to the danger of religious dogmatism, where individuals place their faith not just in their religion but in their own interpretation of it, often seeing themselves as more enlightened than others. In this context, religion can fuel a kind of intellectual closed-mindedness, where individuals become so attached to their beliefs that they fail to engage meaningfully with differing perspectives. This self-righteousness is what Landor is warning against—a tendency to believe that religious faith grants a special kind of intellectual authority, even when it’s clear that such beliefs are not universally shared or logically compelling.

The quote also addresses the tension between faith and reason, suggesting that religious conviction, when unchecked by humility, can lead people to think they hold an unchallengeable truth. It highlights how intolerance can arise when religious belief is wielded as a tool of superiority, discouraging open dialogue or understanding between people with differing views. Landor seems to be advocating for a more open-minded approach, where intellectual humility and respect for others' beliefs are valued over self-assured righteousness.

Walter Savage Landor was a British writer, poet, and essayist, known for his sharp wit and critical views on society. His works often tackled themes of individualism, intellectual arrogance, and the tension between faith and reason. In this quote, Landor critiques the tendency for some to elevate their religious beliefs to the point of self-deception, using them as a means to claim moral or intellectual superiority over others. His thought-provoking criticism calls for a more balanced, humble approach to religious belief and disputation.