The point of mathematics is that in it we have always got rid of the particular instance, and even of any particular sorts of entities. So that for example, no mathematical truths apply merely to fish, or merely to stones, or merely to colours. So long as you are dealing with pure mathematics, you are in the realm of complete and absolute abstraction. . . . Mathematics is thought moving in the sphere of complete abstraction from any particular instance of what it is talking about.

The merely well-informed man is the most useless bore on God's earth.

I put forward as a general definition of civilization, that a civilized society is exhibiting the five qualities of Truth, Beauty, Adventure, Art, Peace.

Seek simplicity, then distrust.

Thus the negative perception is the triumph of consciousness.

Seek simplicity but distrust it.

The art of progress is to preserve order amid change and to preserve change amid order.