“I have always thought that religion has nothing useful to teach us”
— Salman Rushdie
Simplified Meaning:
The idea being expressed here is that the person believes religion doesn't offer any valuable lessons or knowledge. They feel that religious teachings do not provide any help or practical benefits. Imagine going to school and feeling that one particular class doesn't help you with anything important in life. You might feel that math, for example, teaches you useful skills for handling money or problem-solving. But this person thinks religion, unlike math, doesn't give you skills or knowledge that you need in daily life. In history, some people have shared similar views, feeling that science and reason give more answers and solutions than religious beliefs do. If someone shares this perspective, they might spend more time learning from science, books, or experiences rather than religious texts. They might look for answers and guidance in different places, like talking to experts, researching, or observing the world around them.