Father went insane and died in 1848, only brother died in 1850 Raised by his mother, two maiden aunts and a sister. Offered the position of an associate professor at the University of Basel at age 24 without even having written the usual dissertation or additional book. Religious Critic - pointing out what is wrong with religion. Looks at the great civilizations for guidance.
Most successful cultures have a ruling class of aristocrats.
Religion contributes to a decline in aristocratic values . I.e.- makes people accepting of weakness. This is the fault of society - we have put more importance on the language and appearance of religious belief than on the substance. In effect, we have killed God on our own. Most Religious people, chronically poor people Don't take responsibility for their actions stress forgiveness and the ultimate reward after death.