of a Theological Writer. XIII

If it were difficult or extensive to develop the concept of fanaticism original: "Schwärmerey." In the 18th century, this term was used pejoratively to describe religious enthusiasm or mystical experiences that lacked rational grounding., I would not have leveled the following reproach against those who despise strictly biblical teachings: "that not a single one of them has considered it worth the effort (or, should I say, has had enough respect for humanity) to instruct the world on what fanaticism actually is—even though they pretend to want to warn the world against it, or to call the world back from it—" I would have considered that I was simultaneously imposing upon myself the duty to free myself from such a reproach, and that this would not be possible in the few lines I am still able to write. But—I do not consider the true explanation of this current "fashionable word" to be difficult. (What those who always have it in their mouths mean by fanaticism—that is indeed difficult to say. Every one of them gives this hated name to whatever he does not want to believe—for these Enlighteners original: "Aufklärer." Here used sarcastically to refer to those who claim intellectual superiority while dismissing traditional faith. are—