“Ecrasons the infamous”, which is interpreted: “The vile thing must be crushed”. This is the expression used by Voltaire to express his feelings towards organized religion. With many natural theists soon following his path, Voltaire expressed his hatred of cultural religions, opting for a universal God of nature. With a few more centuries, Darwin would have given Voltaire the scientific theory to support his desire for atheism. But alas, with no other theory in place, the intelligent individuals of 18th century France were forced to use creationism to explain the world in its beauty and organization. This, as previously stated, was not a problem for Voltaire. His problem was the moral implications that separated religious groups, often to the point of war with each other. Religious intolerance was a topic covered in many of his works, particularly in Candide. The religious characters in this work were mostly negative, with the exception of the Brothers' predecessor, the Anabaptist and the old woman. Candide also established his opinion on various religions, although it was simply vague, grouping all organized religions into the category of “evil superstitions.” The conclusion of this work also provided us with information on Voltaire's view of religion as positive or harmful to society and the individual. Throughout the book, Voltaire criticized Leibniz's theory that we live in the "best of all possible worlds". Pangloss was our optimistic philosopher, who supported Leibniz's theory. He argued that “since everything was made for a purpose, everything is necessarily for the best purpose” (Voltaire, 16). After Candide was beaten, his love raped, his tutor fell ill with syphilis; After earthquakes, shipwrecks, slavery, exile and...... middle of paper ......andide realized the importance of living life as best as possible, despite the trials and the tribulations of the world. But Voltaire said more through Candide. This quote revealed a certain philosophical and metaphysical individuality. Voltaire wanted people to turn a deaf ear to the world of so-called “peaceful” religions and instead focus on carrying out their lives and duties as best they could. “We” have to do it ourselves. Religious authorities should not be left to determine their salvation. His call is for each person to find their own path to God, and then reap what they have sown. Works Cited Maurois, Andre. "Ferney's essay, an appreciation." New York: Bantam Dell, 1932. Voltaire. White. Translated by Lowell Vair. New York: Bantam Dell, 2003.