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.

March 19, 2025

1 year ago

Simplicity rarely loses to complexity in battles in the public square.

October 31, 2025

9 months ago

The danger is not that a particular class is unfit to govern. Every class is unfit to govern.

May 8, 2025

1 year ago

Diplomacy is about surviving till the next century—politics is about surviving till Friday afternoon.

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