This quote brings to light the crucial issue of how shielded belief systems, particularly religion, can become problematic when unchallenged. When beliefs are not subjected to open scrutiny, they tend to be accepted widely and uncritically by society. This phenomenon can lead to collective dogmatism, where ideas that lack rational support are perpetuated simply because they haven't been questioned. The concern here is that, in the absence of critical evaluation, beliefs can be held by mass populations based on trust, tradition, or authority rather than evidence and reason. The striking phrase that certain beliefs are held en masse because only 'idiots or lunatics' would believe them in isolation underscores how intuitive critical thinking is to avoid irrational beliefs. It suggests that when left unchecked, people may adopt beliefs that are glaringly illogical or unsupported, merely because they are part of a collective identity or tradition. Historically and culturally, this has led to conflicts, societal divisions, and the survival of harmful dogmas. Encouraging open discussion, skepticism, and critical thinking is vital in ensuring that beliefs are scrutinized and validated through rational inquiry. Only by fostering an environment where ideas can be challenged without fear can societies avoid shifting into regimes of unexamined acceptance, which can ultimately threaten individual autonomy and societal progress.