English Quotes

If magic exploits our capacity to... unconsciously modify events in the ongoing world to form a story, even at the expense of everything we know to be possible... then we are indeed master editors, tirelessly working to communicate to others and ourselves a meaningful tale. — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 25, 2024

Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy. #ThichNhatHanh

Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy. #ThichNhatHanh — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 24, 2024

It is wrong to keep spelling out unnecessary choices that make women unconsciously resist either commitment or motherhood--and that hold back recognition of the needed social changes. #BettyFriedan

It is wrong to keep spelling out unnecessary choices that make women unconsciously resist either commitment or motherhood--and that hold back recognition of the needed social changes. #BettyFriedan — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 24, 2024

Only by knowing the kinds of beings that we actually are, with the complex mental and emotional architecture that we happen to possess, can anyone even begin to ask about what would count as a meaningful life. #JonathanHaidt

Only by knowing the kinds of beings that we actually are, with the complex mental and emotional architecture that we happen to possess, can anyone even begin to ask about what would count as a meaningful life. #JonathanHaidt — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 24, 2024

A turbulent history has taught Chinese leaders that not every problem has a solution and that too great an emphasis on total mastery over specific events could upset the harmony of the universe. #HenryKissinger

A turbulent history has taught Chinese leaders that not every problem has a solution and that too great an emphasis on total mastery over specific events could upset the harmony of the universe. #HenryKissinger — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 24, 2024

[It's] not surprising that the administration of George W. Bush consistently argues that extra-judicial killings, indefinite imprisonment without trial, and harsh physical treatment of prisoners are legal and proper steps in fighting the Manichaean war on terror. #JonathanHaidt

[It's] not surprising that the administration of George W. Bush consistently argues that extra-judicial killings, indefinite imprisonment without trial, and harsh physical treatment of prisoners are legal and proper steps in fighting the Manichaean war on terror. #JonathanHaidt — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 24, 2024

...good deeds can be shortly stated but where wrong is done a wealth of language is needed to veil its deformity. #Thucydides

...good deeds can be shortly stated but where wrong is done a wealth of language is needed to veil its deformity. #Thucydides — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 24, 2024

For fear of disagreement, we hesitate to bring our moral and spiritual convictions into the public square. But shrinking from these questions does not leave them undecided. It simply means that markets will decide them for us. #MichaelSandel

For fear of disagreement, we hesitate to bring our moral and spiritual convictions into the public square. But shrinking from these questions does not leave them undecided. It simply means that markets will decide them for us. #MichaelSandel — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 23, 2024

[Aristotle] thinks the best flutes should go to the best flute players because that's what flutes are for--to be played well. #MichaelSandel

[Aristotle] thinks the best flutes should go to the best flute players because that's what flutes are for--to be played well. #MichaelSandel — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 23, 2024

We suffer, feel lost and isolated, are racked with worry, miss our own talents, refuse love, lack empathy, sulk, obsess, and hate: These are not merely personal flaws, but constitute the essence of the human animal. #AlaindeBotton

We suffer, feel lost and isolated, are racked with worry, miss our own talents, refuse love, lack empathy, sulk, obsess, and hate: These are not merely personal flaws, but constitute the essence of the human animal. #AlaindeBotton — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 23, 2024

Religion isn't about private belief in God or the afterlife, but about conspicuous public professions of belief that help bind groups together. #RobinHanson

Religion isn't about private belief in God or the afterlife, but about conspicuous public professions of belief that help bind groups together. #RobinHanson — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 23, 2024

Our romantic impulses are continually renewed. We blame everything but our hopes. #TheSchoolOfLife

Our romantic impulses are continually renewed. We blame everything but our hopes. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 23, 2024

What stops them is that as soon as they give the word end its double meaning of goal and fulfillment they clearly perceive this ambiguity of their condition, which is the most fundamental of all: that every living movement is a sliding toward death. #SimonedeBeauvoir

What stops them is that as soon as they give the word end its double meaning of goal and fulfillment they clearly perceive this ambiguity of their condition, which is the most fundamental of all: that every living movement is a sliding toward death. #SimonedeBeauvoir — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 23, 2024

There is no fundamental difference between man and animals in their ability to feel pleasure and pain, happiness, and misery. #CharlesDarwin

There is no fundamental difference between man and animals in their ability to feel pleasure and pain, happiness, and misery. #CharlesDarwin — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 22, 2024

If we're being honest with ourselves--and true to the book's thesis--then we must admit there is a risk to confronting our hidden motives. #KevinSimler

If we're being honest with ourselves--and true to the book's thesis--then we must admit there is a risk to confronting our hidden motives. #KevinSimler — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 22, 2024

Data will eclipse both land and machinery as the most important asset, and politics will be a struggle to control the flow of data. #YuvalNoahHarari

Data will eclipse both land and machinery as the most important asset, and politics will be a struggle to control the flow of data. #YuvalNoahHarari — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 22, 2024

In older, more religious societies, there was the possibility of apology before a divine being, a period of penance and then, eventually, forgiveness. But that is one of the handy mechanisms we unknowingly dismantled when we decided that God was a fiction. #TheSchoolOfLife

In older, more religious societies, there was the possibility of apology before a divine being, a period of penance and then, eventually, forgiveness. But that is one of the handy mechanisms we unknowingly dismantled when we decided that God was a fiction. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 22, 2024

Heidegger is acknowledged to be one of the most important philosophers of the 20th century. He was born in 1889 in Messkirch, Germany, and had early aspirations to be a priest, but after coming across the writings of Husserl he took up philosophy instead. #WillBuckingham

Heidegger is acknowledged to be one of the most important philosophers of the 20th century. He was born in 1889 in Messkirch, Germany, and had early aspirations to be a priest, but after coming across the writings of Husserl he took up philosophy instead. #WillBuckingham — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 22, 2024

Our partner's sexuality does not belong to us. It isn't just for and about us, and we should not assume that it rightfully falls within our jurisdiction. #EstherPerel

Our partner's sexuality does not belong to us. It isn't just for and about us, and we should not assume that it rightfully falls within our jurisdiction. #EstherPerel — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 22, 2024

The how is the pivotal issue. Every single act in your life can be like this. It is not the content of your life that matters. It is the context of your life that does. #Sadhguru

The how is the pivotal issue. Every single act in your life can be like this. It is not the content of your life that matters. It is the context of your life that does. #Sadhguru — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 21, 2024

I could do it 20, 30 years ago, but not anymore. [...] You cannot predict what your physical condition will be like. However rigorous and disciplined I am, it will still be a downhill slide. #LeeKuanYew

I could do it 20, 30 years ago, but not anymore. [...] You cannot predict what your physical condition will be like. However rigorous and disciplined I am, it will still be a downhill slide. #LeeKuanYew — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 21, 2024

I took statistics at business school, and it was transformative for my career. #LaszloBock

I took statistics at business school, and it was transformative for my career. #LaszloBock — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 21, 2024

To derive the most useful information from multiple sources of evidence, you should always try to make these sources independent of each other. #DanielKahneman

To derive the most useful information from multiple sources of evidence, you should always try to make these sources independent of each other. #DanielKahneman — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 21, 2024

History is the memory of States. #HenryKissinger

History is the memory of States. #HenryKissinger — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 21, 2024

When we notice someone suffering and immediately decide to help them, it says to our associates, See how easily I'm moved to help others? When people near me are suffering, I can't help wanting to make their situation better; it's just who I am. #RobinHanson

When we notice someone suffering and immediately decide to help them, it says to our associates, See how easily I'm moved to help others? When people near me are suffering, I can't help wanting to make their situation better; it's just who I am. #RobinHanson — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 21, 2024

Worship power--you will feel weak and afraid, and you will need ever more power over others to keep the fear at bay. #DavidBrooks

Worship power--you will feel weak and afraid, and you will need ever more power over others to keep the fear at bay. #DavidBrooks — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 20, 2024

Our minds simply amplify (or minimize) our problems to fit the degree of stress we expect to experience. Material progress and security do not necessarily relax us or make it easier to hope for the future. #MarkManson

Our minds simply amplify (or minimize) our problems to fit the degree of stress we expect to experience. Material progress and security do not necessarily relax us or make it easier to hope for the future. #MarkManson — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 20, 2024

Is it possible that we might want to help our children grow into control, ownership, and independence at the same time that we ourselves are trying to grow out of it? #RichardEyre

Is it possible that we might want to help our children grow into control, ownership, and independence at the same time that we ourselves are trying to grow out of it? #RichardEyre — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 20, 2024

...separate instant emotion from action, to reduce the power of temporary feelings. #DavidBrooks

...separate instant emotion from action, to reduce the power of temporary feelings. #DavidBrooks — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 20, 2024

...a worldview that focuses on self-interest doesn't account for the full amplitude of the human person. We are capable of great acts of love that self-interest cannot fathom, and murderous acts of cruelty that self-interest cannot explain. #DavidBrooks

...a worldview that focuses on self-interest doesn't account for the full amplitude of the human person. We are capable of great acts of love that self-interest cannot fathom, and murderous acts of cruelty that self-interest cannot explain. #DavidBrooks — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 20, 2024

Existence becomes overcomplicated when we submit ourselves to tasks or possessions without having a clear sense of their purpose. When we don't properly know why we're doing something, we don't know how much of it we need in our life. #TheSchoolOfLife

Existence becomes overcomplicated when we submit ourselves to tasks or possessions without having a clear sense of their purpose. When we don't properly know why we're doing something, we don't know how much of it we need in our life. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 19, 2024

[Group cooperation] is thwarted by tribalism (group-level selfishness), disagreements over the proper terms of cooperation (individualism or collectivism?), commitments to local proper nouns (leaders, gods, holy books), a biased sense of fairness, and [perception] #JoshuaGreene

[Group cooperation] is thwarted by tribalism (group-level selfishness), disagreements over the proper terms of cooperation (individualism or collectivism?), commitments to local proper nouns (leaders, gods, holy books), a biased sense of fairness, and [perception] #JoshuaGreene — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 19, 2024

The corporate world has been consumed with metrics. Managers love tangible measures by which they can determine success or failure. Work hours is one of the easiest ways to measure employee performance, but total hours worked is a meaningless statistic. #CelesteHeadlee

The corporate world has been consumed with metrics. Managers love tangible measures by which they can determine success or failure. Work hours is one of the easiest ways to measure employee performance, but total hours worked is a meaningless statistic. #CelesteHeadlee — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 19, 2024

We shouldn't be reassured, either, when a partner insists that they have no interest whatsoever in any other human on earth. #TheSchoolOfLife

We shouldn't be reassured, either, when a partner insists that they have no interest whatsoever in any other human on earth. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 19, 2024

Win-Stay, Lose-Shift algorithm: choose an arm at random, and keep pulling it as long as it keeps paying off. If the arm doesn't pay off after a particular pull, then switch to the other one [...] Robbins proved in 1952 that it performs reliably better than chance. #BrianChristian

Win-Stay, Lose-Shift algorithm: choose an arm at random, and keep pulling it as long as it keeps paying off. If the arm doesn't pay off after a particular pull, then switch to the other one [...] Robbins proved in 1952 that it performs reliably better than chance. #BrianChristian — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 19, 2024

I think it's possible to see what's in [your heart] if you work hard enough at it. So in the end maybe that's the challenge: to look inside your own heart as perceptively and seriously as you can, and to make peace with what you find there. #HarukiMurakami

I think it's possible to see what's in [your heart] if you work hard enough at it. So in the end maybe that's the challenge: to look inside your own heart as perceptively and seriously as you can, and to make peace with what you find there. #HarukiMurakami — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 19, 2024

Humility is freedom from the need to prove you are superior all the time, but egotism is a ravenous hunger in a small space--self-concerned, competitive, and distinction-hungry. Humility is infused with lovely emotions like admiration, companionship, and gratitude. #DavidBrooks

Humility is freedom from the need to prove you are superior all the time, but egotism is a ravenous hunger in a small space--self-concerned, competitive, and distinction-hungry. Humility is infused with lovely emotions like admiration, companionship, and gratitude. #DavidBrooks — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 18, 2024

Two people should see a relationship as a constant opportunity to improve and be improved. #TheSchoolOfLife

Two people should see a relationship as a constant opportunity to improve and be improved. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 18, 2024

It's hard to experience desire when you're weighted down by concern. #EstherPerel

It's hard to experience desire when you're weighted down by concern. #EstherPerel — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 18, 2024

Back then, the rule of thumb was that housing costs--whether rents or mortgage payments--should not take more than one-fourth of a person's income. In 1901, housing costs took 23 percent of the average American family's spending. By 2003, it took 33 percent... #ThomasSowell

Back then, the rule of thumb was that housing costs--whether rents or mortgage payments--should not take more than one-fourth of a person's income. In 1901, housing costs took 23 percent of the average American family's spending. By 2003, it took 33 percent... #ThomasSowell — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 18, 2024

Remember that most people will pretend to operate in your interest while operating in their own. #RayDalio

Remember that most people will pretend to operate in your interest while operating in their own. #RayDalio — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 18, 2024

We are afraid that our adult sexuality will somehow damage our kids, that it's inappropriate or dangerous. But whom are we protecting? #EstherPerel

We are afraid that our adult sexuality will somehow damage our kids, that it's inappropriate or dangerous. But whom are we protecting? #EstherPerel — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 18, 2024

The only opponent you have to beat is yourself, the way you used to be. #HarukiMurakami

The only opponent you have to beat is yourself, the way you used to be. #HarukiMurakami — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 17, 2024

The fact is that we are good at sports and music because we subject ourselves to unforgiving standards of excellence and then work ferociously to meet those standards. Ruthlessly, we allow absolutely no excuses. #ShelbySteele

The fact is that we are good at sports and music because we subject ourselves to unforgiving standards of excellence and then work ferociously to meet those standards. Ruthlessly, we allow absolutely no excuses. #ShelbySteele — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 17, 2024

These realms of heated chaos and cool logic fused together in the great Greek tragedies as audiences followed a hero trying to impose order (the Apollonian urge) on whatever random fate threw his way (the Dionysian drive). #DerrenBrown

These realms of heated chaos and cool logic fused together in the great Greek tragedies as audiences followed a hero trying to impose order (the Apollonian urge) on whatever random fate threw his way (the Dionysian drive). #DerrenBrown — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 17, 2024

Well, it so happens that America is currently far, far more creative than these nations of museumgoers and equation solvers. It is also far more tolerant of bottom-up tinkering and undirected trial and error. #NassimNicholasTaleb

Well, it so happens that America is currently far, far more creative than these nations of museumgoers and equation solvers. It is also far more tolerant of bottom-up tinkering and undirected trial and error. #NassimNicholasTaleb — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 17, 2024

[Jean] didn't know she'd be dead in three months. Well, maybe Jean knew [...] But what she didn't do was go around hoping to provide someone else with a satisfying sense of dramatic irony. Nobody lives like that and it's odd that we do it to the dead sometimes. #RobertWebb

[Jean] didn't know she'd be dead in three months. Well, maybe Jean knew [...] But what she didn't do was go around hoping to provide someone else with a satisfying sense of dramatic irony. Nobody lives like that and it's odd that we do it to the dead sometimes. #RobertWebb — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 17, 2024

'Inspiration is for amateurs,' the artist Chuck Close once memorably observed. 'The rest of us just show up and get to work. #OliverBurkeman

'Inspiration is for amateurs,' the artist Chuck Close once memorably observed. 'The rest of us just show up and get to work. #OliverBurkeman — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 16, 2024

America's specialty is to take these small risks for the rest of the world, which explains this country's disproportionate share in innovations. #NassimNicholasTaleb

America's specialty is to take these small risks for the rest of the world, which explains this country's disproportionate share in innovations. #NassimNicholasTaleb — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 16, 2024

The character traits and mentalities that were formed in response to one or two central actors of childhood becomes the habitual templates for interpreting pretty much anyone. #TheSchoolOfLife

The character traits and mentalities that were formed in response to one or two central actors of childhood becomes the habitual templates for interpreting pretty much anyone. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 16, 2024

Everyone should cultivate a secret garden. #EstherPerel

Everyone should cultivate a secret garden. #EstherPerel — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 16, 2024

It's humbling to recognise just how many great achievements have been the result not of superior talent or technical know-how, but merely of that strange buoyancy of the soul we call confidence. #TheSchoolOfLife

It's humbling to recognise just how many great achievements have been the result not of superior talent or technical know-how, but merely of that strange buoyancy of the soul we call confidence. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 15, 2024

We feel guilty for all that we have not yet read, but overlook how much better read we already are than Augustine or Dante, thereby ignoring that our problem lies squarely with our manner of absorption rather than with the extent of our consumption. #AlaindeBotton

We feel guilty for all that we have not yet read, but overlook how much better read we already are than Augustine or Dante, thereby ignoring that our problem lies squarely with our manner of absorption rather than with the extent of our consumption. #AlaindeBotton — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 15, 2024

If we want to create welcoming, inclusive communities, we should be doing everything we can to turn down the tribalism and turn up the sense of common humanity. #JonathanHaidt

If we want to create welcoming, inclusive communities, we should be doing everything we can to turn down the tribalism and turn up the sense of common humanity. #JonathanHaidt — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 15, 2024

Confidence is a skill, not a gift from the gods. #TheSchoolOfLife

Confidence is a skill, not a gift from the gods. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 15, 2024

The conference is geared to people who enjoy meaningful discussions and sometimes move a conversation to a deeper level, only to find out we are the only ones there. #SusanCain

The conference is geared to people who enjoy meaningful discussions and sometimes move a conversation to a deeper level, only to find out we are the only ones there. #SusanCain — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 15, 2024

...a self-made gentleman, one who was guided by the values of civility, humility, and decency, inspired by religious and social service, and utterly devoted to the idea of dignity. #DavidBrooks

...a self-made gentleman, one who was guided by the values of civility, humility, and decency, inspired by religious and social service, and utterly devoted to the idea of dignity. #DavidBrooks — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 15, 2024

It is important to see that whatever seems determined in your life has been determined by you unconsciously. #Sadhguru

It is important to see that whatever seems determined in your life has been determined by you unconsciously. #Sadhguru — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 14, 2024

In the tradition of the East, marriage is a union of a man and a woman in totality. One partner bears a moral responsibility should any change in the martial relation occur. #QianNing

In the tradition of the East, marriage is a union of a man and a woman in totality. One partner bears a moral responsibility should any change in the martial relation occur. #QianNing — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 14, 2024

Perhaps then, we will not only realize but finally embrace the Uncomfortable Truth: that we imagined our own importance, we invented our purpose, and we were, and still are, nothing. #MarkManson

Perhaps then, we will not only realize but finally embrace the Uncomfortable Truth: that we imagined our own importance, we invented our purpose, and we were, and still are, nothing. #MarkManson — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 14, 2024

People throughout history worried that unless we put all our faith in some set of absolute answers, human society will crumble. #YuvalNoahHarari

People throughout history worried that unless we put all our faith in some set of absolute answers, human society will crumble. #YuvalNoahHarari — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 14, 2024

Does what is praised becomes better? Does an emerald become worse if it isn't praised? And what a gold, ivory, a flower or a little plant? #AlaindeBotton

Does what is praised becomes better? Does an emerald become worse if it isn't praised? And what a gold, ivory, a flower or a little plant? #AlaindeBotton — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 14, 2024

Saint Augustine consolingly codified unhappiness as an immutable feature of existence, part of the wretchedness of man's situation, and poured scorn on all those theories by which men have tried hard to build up joy for themselves within the misery of this life. #AlaindeBotton

Saint Augustine consolingly codified unhappiness as an immutable feature of existence, part of the wretchedness of man's situation, and poured scorn on all those theories by which men have tried hard to build up joy for themselves within the misery of this life. #AlaindeBotton — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 13, 2024

Since I'm new, you might not feel comfortable sharing everything with me right away. I hope to earn your trust over time. I'll start by sharing more about myself, including my biggest failure ever... I love this anecdote because it's the epitome of show, don't tell #JulieZhuo

Since I'm new, you might not feel comfortable sharing everything with me right away. I hope to earn your trust over time. I'll start by sharing more about myself, including my biggest failure ever... I love this anecdote because it's the epitome of show, don't tell #JulieZhuo — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 13, 2024

Maybe one of our biggest problems is that different human groups have completely different futures. #YuvalNoahHarari

Maybe one of our biggest problems is that different human groups have completely different futures. #YuvalNoahHarari — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 13, 2024

There is no crime, absolutely none, that cannot be condoned when our side commits it. Even if one does not deny that the crime has happened, even if one knows that it is exactly the same crime as one has condemned in some other case... #GeorgeOrwell

There is no crime, absolutely none, that cannot be condoned when our side commits it. Even if one does not deny that the crime has happened, even if one knows that it is exactly the same crime as one has condemned in some other case... #GeorgeOrwell — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 13, 2024

Something unexpected, shocking and abhorrent regularly comes along, not only to us, but to all human beings. We are simply too exposed to accident, too lacking in information, too frail in our capacities, to avoid some serious avalanches and traps. #TheSchoolOfLife

Something unexpected, shocking and abhorrent regularly comes along, not only to us, but to all human beings. We are simply too exposed to accident, too lacking in information, too frail in our capacities, to avoid some serious avalanches and traps. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 12, 2024

The neural networks embody our experiences and in turn guide future action. They contain the unique way each of us carries himself in the world, the way we walk, talk, and react. They are the grooves down which our behavior flows. #DavidBrooks

The neural networks embody our experiences and in turn guide future action. They contain the unique way each of us carries himself in the world, the way we walk, talk, and react. They are the grooves down which our behavior flows. #DavidBrooks — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 12, 2024

Unfortunately, the new ambitious ideals of parenting have developed at exactly the same moment as has modern capitalism. In other words, just as unprecedented demands have been made on us in our working lives, so too the parenting sphere has become more exacting #TheSchoolOfLife

Unfortunately, the new ambitious ideals of parenting have developed at exactly the same moment as has modern capitalism. In other words, just as unprecedented demands have been made on us in our working lives, so too the parenting sphere has become more exacting #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 12, 2024

Nothing is decided in advance, and it is because man has something to lose and because he can lose that he can also win. #SimonedeBeauvoir

Nothing is decided in advance, and it is because man has something to lose and because he can lose that he can also win. #SimonedeBeauvoir — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 12, 2024

This is why Marxists recount the history of capitalism; why feminists study the formation of patriarchal societies; and why African Americans commemorate the horrors of the slave trade. They aim not to perpetuate the past, but rather to be liberated from it. #YuvalNoahHarari

This is why Marxists recount the history of capitalism; why feminists study the formation of patriarchal societies; and why African Americans commemorate the horrors of the slave trade. They aim not to perpetuate the past, but rather to be liberated from it. #YuvalNoahHarari — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 12, 2024

Luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity. #LuciusAnnaeusSeneca

Luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity. #LuciusAnnaeusSeneca — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 11, 2024

I've been really lucky, he said. And I really, genuinely believe that if you tell people that they have what it takes to succeed, they'll prove you right. #CharlesDuhigg

I've been really lucky, he said. And I really, genuinely believe that if you tell people that they have what it takes to succeed, they'll prove you right. #CharlesDuhigg — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 11, 2024

If you are in a big city or on an online dating site, you are flooded with options. Seeing all these options [...] are we now comparing our potential partners not to other potential partners but rather to an idealized person whom no one could measure up to? #AzizAnsari

If you are in a big city or on an online dating site, you are flooded with options. Seeing all these options [...] are we now comparing our potential partners not to other potential partners but rather to an idealized person whom no one could measure up to? #AzizAnsari — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 11, 2024

We tend to focus overly on the externals: a certain sort of room, particular kinds of clothes, a certain level of hormones... But the most important ingredient in encouraging us to take off our clothes and present ourselves without inhibition or fear is [trust]. #TheSchoolOfLife

We tend to focus overly on the externals: a certain sort of room, particular kinds of clothes, a certain level of hormones... But the most important ingredient in encouraging us to take off our clothes and present ourselves without inhibition or fear is [trust]. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 11, 2024

I think that we approach the problem of romantic love all wrong when we start with the questions: why do so many relationships fail? I think that the interesting question is why do some succeed? #NathanielBranden

I think that we approach the problem of romantic love all wrong when we start with the questions: why do so many relationships fail? I think that the interesting question is why do some succeed? #NathanielBranden — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 11, 2024

...across Europe to study the factors that affect the suicide rate. [Emile's] findings can be summarized in one word constraints. No matter how he parsed the data, people who had fewer social constraints, bonds, and obligations were more likely to kill themselves. #JonathanHaidt

...across Europe to study the factors that affect the suicide rate. [Emile's] findings can be summarized in one word constraints. No matter how he parsed the data, people who had fewer social constraints, bonds, and obligations were more likely to kill themselves. #JonathanHaidt — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 11, 2024

Living is a kind of skill. The calm and wisdom of old age are achieved over time. #AtulGawande

Living is a kind of skill. The calm and wisdom of old age are achieved over time. #AtulGawande — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 10, 2024

The only thing I know is that I know nothing, and I am not quite sure that I know that. #Socrates

The only thing I know is that I know nothing, and I am not quite sure that I know that. #Socrates — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 10, 2024

Many movies about artificial intelligence are so divorced from scientific reality that one suspects they are just allegories of completely different concerns. #YuvalNoahHarari

Many movies about artificial intelligence are so divorced from scientific reality that one suspects they are just allegories of completely different concerns. #YuvalNoahHarari — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 10, 2024

Window daydreaming is a strategic rebellion against the excessive demands of immediate pressures in favour of the slow development of more substantial plans. #TheSchoolOfLife

Window daydreaming is a strategic rebellion against the excessive demands of immediate pressures in favour of the slow development of more substantial plans. #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 10, 2024

If you think that moral reasoning is something we do to figure out the truth, you'll be constantly frustrated by how foolish, biased, and illogical people become when they disagree with you. #JonathanHaidt

If you think that moral reasoning is something we do to figure out the truth, you'll be constantly frustrated by how foolish, biased, and illogical people become when they disagree with you. #JonathanHaidt — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 10, 2024

Everyone wants someone to help but prefers that it not be them. #StevenPinker

Everyone wants someone to help but prefers that it not be them. #StevenPinker — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 9, 2024

We've all heard that what doesn't kill us makes us stronger, but that is a dangerous oversimplification. Many of the things that don't kill you can damage you for life. #JonathanHaidt

We've all heard that what doesn't kill us makes us stronger, but that is a dangerous oversimplification. Many of the things that don't kill you can damage you for life. #JonathanHaidt — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 9, 2024

What I want to say is that in a certain sense, while the novelist is creating a novel, he is simultaneously being created by the novel as well. #HarukiMurakami

What I want to say is that in a certain sense, while the novelist is creating a novel, he is simultaneously being created by the novel as well. #HarukiMurakami — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 9, 2024

Get busy living, or get busy dying. #StephenKing

Get busy living, or get busy dying. #StephenKing — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 9, 2024

Don't always consider all your options. Don't necessarily go for the outcome that seems best every time. #BrianChristian

Don't always consider all your options. Don't necessarily go for the outcome that seems best every time. #BrianChristian — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 8, 2024

[A nationalist] sees history, especially contemporary history, as the endless rise and decline of great power units, and every event that happens seems to him a demonstration that his own side is on the up-grade and some hated rival is on the down-grade. #GeorgeOrwell

[A nationalist] sees history, especially contemporary history, as the endless rise and decline of great power units, and every event that happens seems to him a demonstration that his own side is on the up-grade and some hated rival is on the down-grade. #GeorgeOrwell — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 8, 2024

If a parent or carer is warm, consistent, attuned, steady and kind, the child will thrive. It will have confidence in itself and in the world. It will know how to love and will have the courage to start relationships, secure [and calmly complain when neglected] #TheSchoolOfLife

If a parent or carer is warm, consistent, attuned, steady and kind, the child will thrive. It will have confidence in itself and in the world. It will know how to love and will have the courage to start relationships, secure [and calmly complain when neglected] #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 8, 2024

A fellow NCO in the Marines once told me that his priorities were the following: provider, parent, spouse, and change agent. In that order. #GeneKim

A fellow NCO in the Marines once told me that his priorities were the following: provider, parent, spouse, and change agent. In that order. #GeneKim — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 8, 2024

Living by the wisdom of computer science doesn't sound so bad after all. And unlike most advice, it's backed up by proofs. #BrianChristian

Living by the wisdom of computer science doesn't sound so bad after all. And unlike most advice, it's backed up by proofs. #BrianChristian — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 8, 2024

Exerting yourself to the fullest within your individual limits: that's the essence of running, and a metaphor for life--and for me, for writing as well. #HarukiMurakami

Exerting yourself to the fullest within your individual limits: that's the essence of running, and a metaphor for life--and for me, for writing as well. #HarukiMurakami — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 8, 2024

Military men are just dumb, stupid animals to be used as pawns in foreign policy. #HenryKissinger

Military men are just dumb, stupid animals to be used as pawns in foreign policy. #HenryKissinger — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 7, 2024

[Some] need to dial up a faith in Free Will, others need more of a mellow acceptance of Determinism. The oldest debate in philosophy isn't [unanswerable]. We just have to answer it with more of a sense of what we need to believe in to be calmer and more fulfilled #TheSchoolOfLife

[Some] need to dial up a faith in Free Will, others need more of a mellow acceptance of Determinism. The oldest debate in philosophy isn't [unanswerable]. We just have to answer it with more of a sense of what we need to believe in to be calmer and more fulfilled #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 7, 2024

...rather amazingly, an IAT developed for monkeys shows that they, too, exhibit implicit preferences for in-group members, associating good things like fruit with in-group members and bad things like spiders with out-group members. #JoshuaGreene

...rather amazingly, an IAT developed for monkeys shows that they, too, exhibit implicit preferences for in-group members, associating good things like fruit with in-group members and bad things like spiders with out-group members. #JoshuaGreene — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 7, 2024

Forgiveness is giving up the hope that the past could have been any different, but we cannot move forward if we're still holding onto the pain of that past and wishing it was something else. #OprahWinfrey

Forgiveness is giving up the hope that the past could have been any different, but we cannot move forward if we're still holding onto the pain of that past and wishing it was something else. #OprahWinfrey — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 7, 2024

The people and institutions who leave a mark provide you with better things to love, a new field of knowledge or a new form of carpentry or auto repair, or a new vision of social change. #DavidBrooks

The people and institutions who leave a mark provide you with better things to love, a new field of knowledge or a new form of carpentry or auto repair, or a new vision of social change. #DavidBrooks — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 6, 2024

We're told that to be great is to be bold, to be happy is to be sociable. We see ourselves as a nation of extroverts--which means that we've lost sight of who we really are. #SusanCain

We're told that to be great is to be bold, to be happy is to be sociable. We see ourselves as a nation of extroverts--which means that we've lost sight of who we really are. #SusanCain — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 6, 2024

There is a value in leaving behind your other concerns and narrowing down your attention to one thing, sentence after sentence, page after page. #JohannHari

There is a value in leaving behind your other concerns and narrowing down your attention to one thing, sentence after sentence, page after page. #JohannHari — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 6, 2024

However, optimism is highly valued, socially and in the market; people and firms reward the providers of dangerously misleading information more than they reward truth tellers. #DanielKahneman

However, optimism is highly valued, socially and in the market; people and firms reward the providers of dangerously misleading information more than they reward truth tellers. #DanielKahneman — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 6, 2024

[Sex] cannot occur without a high degree of vulnerability on both sides. The physical act requires an almost unavoidable degree of physical and emotional intimacy--which explains why sex can be so difficult between two people who lack trust... #TheSchoolOfLife

[Sex] cannot occur without a high degree of vulnerability on both sides. The physical act requires an almost unavoidable degree of physical and emotional intimacy--which explains why sex can be so difficult between two people who lack trust... #TheSchoolOfLife — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 6, 2024

You only have power over people as long as you don't take everything away from them. But when you've robbed a man of everything, he's no longer in your power--he's free again. #AleksandrSolzhenitsyn

You only have power over people as long as you don't take everything away from them. But when you've robbed a man of everything, he's no longer in your power--he's free again. #AleksandrSolzhenitsyn — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 5, 2024

If only there were evil people somewhere insidiously committing evil deeds, and it were necessary only to separate them from the rest of us and destroy them. But the line dividing good and evil cuts through the heart of every human being. #AleksandrSolzhenitsyn

If only there were evil people somewhere insidiously committing evil deeds, and it were necessary only to separate them from the rest of us and destroy them. But the line dividing good and evil cuts through the heart of every human being. #AleksandrSolzhenitsyn — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 5, 2024

With this moral authority there was the power to better defend myself against racism, but there was also a new, abusive power very similar to the abusive power that had been wielded against me--a power of racial privilege deriving solely from the color of my skin. #ShelbySteele

With this moral authority there was the power to better defend myself against racism, but there was also a new, abusive power very similar to the abusive power that had been wielded against me--a power of racial privilege deriving solely from the color of my skin. #ShelbySteele — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 5, 2024

Men can't 'multi-task' apparently. #RobertWebb

Men can't 'multi-task' apparently. #RobertWebb — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 5, 2024

If a government is corrupt and fails to improve people's lives, enough citizens will eventually realise this and replace the government. But government control of the media undermines Lincoln's logic, because it prevents citizens from realising the truth. #YuvalNoahHarari

If a government is corrupt and fails to improve people's lives, enough citizens will eventually realise this and replace the government. But government control of the media undermines Lincoln's logic, because it prevents citizens from realising the truth. #YuvalNoahHarari — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 5, 2024

Instead, the lesson is that false beliefs, once they've become culturally entrenched--once they've become tribal badges of honor--are very difficult to change, and changing them is no longer simply a matter of educating people. #JoshuaGreene

Instead, the lesson is that false beliefs, once they've become culturally entrenched--once they've become tribal badges of honor--are very difficult to change, and changing them is no longer simply a matter of educating people. #JoshuaGreene — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 4, 2024

The two biggest causes of evil are two that we think are good, and that we try to encourage in our children: high self-esteem and moral idealism. #JonathanHaidt

The two biggest causes of evil are two that we think are good, and that we try to encourage in our children: high self-esteem and moral idealism. #JonathanHaidt — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 4, 2024

[White guilt] says that white supremacy is not a moral truth that decency requires us to observe, but rather an evil that decency requires us to condemn. This new virtue demands that whites condemn the idea of their own racial superiority. #ShelbySteele

[White guilt] says that white supremacy is not a moral truth that decency requires us to observe, but rather an evil that decency requires us to condemn. This new virtue demands that whites condemn the idea of their own racial superiority. #ShelbySteele — English Quotes (@english_quotes) Sep 4, 2024

[When] forgiveness feels impossible, therapists speak of [...] 'splitting', [declaring] some people to be entirely good and others [as] entirely awful [to] protect ourselves from what can feel like the impossible dangers of disappointment or grown-up ambivalence. #TheSchoolOfLife