The quote suggests that if Christianity had stayed a small Jewish sect instead of growing into a major world religion, many people today would lack literacy skills or access to books. This implies that the spread and success of Christianity played a crucial role in advancing education and book production.
At a deeper level, the statement highlights how significant historical events and religious movements can shape cultural advancements. The rise of Christianity not only influenced spiritual beliefs but also had an indirect impact on societal structures like education systems and technological developments related to writing and printing. By becoming widespread and influencing much of Europe and beyond, Christianity contributed to the establishment of educational institutions and libraries that promoted literacy and preserved knowledge for future generations.
Rodney Stark is a renowned sociologist known for his work in religious studies and social research. He has extensively explored the impact of religion on societal development throughout history, often challenging conventional historical narratives with empirical analysis. His insights frequently highlight how religions have historically driven cultural advancements rather than hindering them, as commonly perceived.
