Faith, to my mind, is a stiffening process, a sort of mental starch, which ought to be applied as sparingly as possible

Faith, to my mind, is a stiffening process, a sort of mental starch, which ought to be applied as sparingly as possible

In the quote “Faith, to my mind, is a stiffening process, a sort of mental starch, which ought to be applied as sparingly as possible,” E.M. Forster seems to be expressing a skepticism towards blind faith and the rigidity that can come with it. Forster was a British novelist known for his works such as A Room with a View and A Passage to India, which often explored themes of personal relationships, societal norms, and the clash between different cultures.

Forster’s views on faith can be seen as a reflection of his own beliefs and experiences. He was known to be a humanist and a critic of organized religion, often questioning the dogma and restrictions that can come with it. In his writing, he often portrayed characters who struggled with their beliefs and the expectations placed upon them by society.

The idea of faith as a “stiffening process” can be interpreted as a metaphor for the way in which blind faith can limit one’s thinking and perspective. When one adheres too strictly to a set of beliefs without questioning or exploring other possibilities, it can lead to a closed-mindedness that inhibits personal growth and understanding.

Forster’s suggestion that faith should be applied “as sparingly as possible” could be seen as a call for moderation and open-mindedness. He seems to be advocating for a more flexible and nuanced approach to faith, one that allows for questioning and exploration rather than rigid adherence to a set of beliefs.

Overall, Forster’s views on faith can be seen as a reflection of his broader philosophy of life. He believed in the importance of individual freedom and personal growth, and saw blind faith as a potential obstacle to these ideals. By encouraging a more open and questioning approach to faith, Forster challenges his readers to think critically and engage with the world in a more thoughtful and nuanced way.