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 26, 2025

10 months ago

It’s better to debate a question without settling it than to settle a question without debating it.

August 23, 2025

6 months ago

To think contrary to one’s era is heroism. But to speak against it is madness.

August 1, 2025

7 months ago

The greatest gift of any statesman rests not in knowing what concessions to make, but recognizing when to make them.

Page 57 of 122