In those days the Church was not merely a thermometer (strictly tells the temperature) that recorded the ideas and principles of popular opinion; it was a thermostat (changes the temperature) that transformed the mores of society.

Question

helpkay · Answer

@ILovePuppiesLol @hippoharry:

helpkay · Answer

Martin Luther King Jr. uses figurative language strategically throughout his letter to promote equality. How does the following instance help accomplish his purpose of challenging the church leaders to take action against racial injustice?

helpkay · Answer

so far i have 


Martin Luther King Jr. is using a Metaphor to compares the church with a thermometer and a thermostat. He is saying that not only does the church tell the temperature it controls the temperature. 

Why is he comparing the two.

Just like a thermostat the church has the power to influence the people.
Just one move can change the the mood of the people.
A thermostat has a lot of control just like the church.

foxesrcool · Answer

Because thermostats are more better.

foxesrcool · Answer

they actually cange stuff instead of just talking about change.

anonymous · Answer

Don't forget also to look at the other half of the metaphor. He's not only saying it's better to be like a thermostat but he's criticizing the church of the time for following the direction of the larger culture rather than setting an example.