Why I Am an Infidel

'Why I Am an Infidel' is a profound and candid personal testament from the world-renowned botanist and horticulturist Luther Burbank. Published near the end of his life, this reflective work articulates Burbank’s transition from traditional religious upbringing to a philosophy rooted in naturalism and rational inquiry. Known primarily for his pioneering contributions to agricultural science, Burbank applies a similar analytical rigor to matters of faith, challenging the dogmas of the era and advocating for a worldview based on observable natural laws.In this essay, Burbank explores the themes of intellectual honesty and the scientific method as they apply to the human spirit. He defines his position as an 'infidel'-not as a rejection of morality, but as an embrace of truth over superstition. He argues for a humanistic ethics centered on kindness and the advancement of knowledge rather than the promise of an afterlife. This work stands as a significant historical document within the American freethought movement, offering readers a unique look into the private convictions of one of the 20th century’s most celebrated scientific figures. Burbank’s reflections remain a compelling study of the intersection between science, nature, and personal belief.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.