There is always a certain meanness in the argument of conservatism, joined with a certain superiority in its fact. It affirms because it holds. Its fingers clutch the fact, and it will not open its eyes to see a better fact.
Ralph Waldo Emerson Quotes
Conservatism makes no poetry, breathes no prayer, has no invention; it is all memory. Reform has no gratitude, no prudence, no husbandry.
Mr. (John Quincy) Adams chose wisely and according to his constitution, when, on leaving the Presidency, he went into Congress. He is no literary old gentleman, but a bruiser, and loves the melee. When they talk about his age and venerableness and nearness to the grave, he knows better, he is like one of those […]
Whoso would be a man must be a nonconformist.
A man must consider what a rich realm he abdicates when he becomes a conformist.
For nonconformity the world whips you with its displeasure.
Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string.
Common sense is as rare as genius, – is the basis of genius.
Common sense is genius dressed in its working clothes.
There is not the slightest probability that the college will foster an eminent talent in any youth. If he refuse prayers and recitations, they will torment and traduce and expel him, though he were Newton or Dante.
