Quotes Library

April 27, 2025

A decent provision for the poor, is the true test of civilization.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), English poet, critic, lexicographer, in James Boswell, Life of Samuel Johnson (1791) 1770, Jay p.197

Do the poor inspire compassion, or are they just annoying? Shiftless scammers?

Johnson puts it well, and simply so.

April 19, 2026

6 months ago

I never dared be radical when young For fear it would make me conservative when old.

December 17, 2025

10 months ago

Men in high places, from having less personal interest in the characters of others—being safe from them—are commonly less acute observers,

September 25, 2025

1 year ago

…that is the great fallacy; the wisdom of old men. They do not grow wise. They grow careful.

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