Meaning: The quote you provided is attributed to Thomas More, an English lawyer, philosopher, and statesman who lived from 1478 to 1535. More is best known for his work "Utopia," a fictional depiction of an ideal society. The quote reflects More's ideas about religious tolerance and the treatment of individuals who convert to a different faith.

In the quote, More seems to be suggesting that in the society he is describing, those who have not embraced the dominant religion do not attempt to dissuade others from following it. Furthermore, he implies that individuals who convert to the dominant religion are not mistreated or discriminated against. More asserts that during his time in this society, only one person was punished for religious reasons.

This quote is significant in the context of More's broader views on religion and society. More was a devout Catholic who lived during the tumultuous period of the Protestant Reformation in England. His stance on religious tolerance and the treatment of religious minorities was influenced by this historical context. More himself was executed for his refusal to accept King Henry VIII as the head of the Church of England, making his views on religious tolerance particularly poignant.

More's "Utopia" is a work of fiction that presents an ideal society, and the quote reflects his vision of a society where religious tolerance and respect for individual beliefs prevail. The society he describes in "Utopia" is characterized by communal ownership of property, religious tolerance, and a focus on education and intellectual pursuits. More's portrayal of a society where individuals are not persecuted for their religious beliefs was a departure from the religious conflicts and persecution that characterized his own time.

Moreover, More's emphasis on religious tolerance in the quote aligns with his broader humanist philosophy, which emphasized the dignity and worth of the individual. Humanism, a cultural and intellectual movement of the Renaissance, emphasized the potential of human beings to contribute to society and promoted the study of classical literature, history, and philosophy. More's humanist beliefs likely influenced his views on religious tolerance and the treatment of individuals with differing religious beliefs.

In conclusion, Thomas More's quote reflects his vision of a society characterized by religious tolerance and respect for individual beliefs. This vision is embedded in the context of his broader humanist philosophy and his experiences during a period of religious turmoil. More's emphasis on religious tolerance and the treatment of religious minorities in "Utopia" offers a compelling perspective on the importance of respecting diverse beliefs and promoting a harmonious coexistence within society.