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.

July 8, 2025

1 year ago

…see how sensitive the citizens become: they chafe impatiently at the least touch of authority and at length

April 8, 2025

2 years ago

Idealism increases in direct proportion to one’s distance from the problem.

July 26, 2025

1 year ago

If politicians lived on praise and thanks they’d be forced into some other line of business.

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