The Renaissance had resulted in the emancipation of the individual, in making him feel that the universe had no other purpose than his happiness. This brought an entirely new answer to the question, 'Why should I do this or that?' It used to be, 'Because self-instituted authority command you.' The answer now was, 'Because it is good for men.' In this lies our greatest debt to the Renaissance, that it instituted the welfare of men as the end of all action.
Bernard BerensonThe average European does not seem to feel free until he succeeds in enslaving and oppressing others.
Bernard BerensonGovernment lasts as long as the under-taxed can defend themselves against the over-taxed.
Bernard BerensonThe Renaissance had resulted in the emancipation of the individual, in making him feel that the universe had no other purpose than his happiness. This brought an entirely new answer to the question, 'Why should I do this or that?' It used to be, 'Because self-instituted authority command you.' The answer now was, 'Because it is good for men.' In this lies our greatest debt to the Renaissance, that it instituted the welfare of men as the end of all action.
Bernard BerensonWe usually meet all of our relatives only at funerals where somebody always observes: "Too bad we can't get together more often".
Bernard Berenson