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.

September 27, 2025

1 year ago

When the lay public rallies round to an idea that is denounced by distinguished but elderly scientists

February 15, 2025

2 years ago

All the business of war, and indeed all the business of life, is to endeavor to find out what you don’t know by what you do;

December 19, 2025

10 months ago

Politicians are the same all over. They promise to build a bridge where there is no river.

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