There are infinite possibilities of error, and more cranks take up fashionable untruths than unfashionable truths.

It is in our hearts that evil lies, and it is from our hearts that it must be plucked out.

Orthodoxy is the grave of intelligence, no matter what orthodoxy it may be.

Dr. Arnold . . . the admired reformer of public schools, came across some cranks who thought it a mistake to flog boys. Anyone reading his outburst of furious indignation against this opinion will be forced to the conclusion that he enjoyed inflicting floggings.

It is no credit to the orthodox that they do not now believe all the absurdities that were believed 150 years ago. The gradual emasculation of the Christian doctrine has been effected in spite of the most vigorous resistance, and solely as the result of the onslaughts of freethinkers.

The purpose of education is to teach a defense against eloquence.

The first essential character [of civilization], I should say, is forethought. This, indeed, is what mainly distinguishes men from brutes and adults from children.