I'm not a religious person. But, when I look at a beautiful cathedral, what brings awe, what induces awe is the idea that architecture, you know, a beautiful cathedral, a beautiful building.

The quote by Jason Silva, “I'm not a religious person. But, when I look at a beautiful cathedral, what brings awe, what induces awe is the idea that architecture, you know, a beautiful cathedral, a beautiful building,” expresses his profound appreciation for the emotional and spiritual power of architecture, even in the absence of religious belief. Silva, known for exploring the intersection of philosophy, technology, and awe, highlights how architecture—particularly cathedrals—can evoke a transcendent experience that rivals traditional religious sentiments.

Even though Silva identifies as non-religious, he acknowledges that standing before a beautiful building, especially one designed to inspire reverence like a cathedral, can still produce a deep sense of wonder and awe. This suggests that architecture functions not only as a physical structure but also as a symbolic and emotional force that can move people on a profound level. The awe he describes emerges not from doctrine, but from the scale, craftsmanship, and intentionality behind such monumental spaces.

His focus on the emotive impact of design aligns with his broader work on awe and the sublime—concepts often explored in his videos and lectures. Silva frequently discusses how experiences that transcend everyday perception can elevate consciousness, and architecture becomes one of the mediums through which this elevation occurs. Cathedrals, in particular, embody centuries of artistic effort, spiritual aspiration, and cultural meaning, making them powerful vessels for awe regardless of one’s beliefs.

The origin of this quote lies in Silva’s reflections, likely from his talks or appearances in his series Shots of Awe, where he often explores aesthetics, human emotion, and existential themes. By focusing on architecture's ability to stir the soul, Silva suggests that beauty and intention in built form can serve as a kind of secular spirituality, reminding us of our capacity to create, contemplate, and feel deeply connected to something greater than ourselves.