The human race may well become extinct before the end of the century. Speaking as a mathematician, I should say the odds are about three to one against survival.

The . . . increase in the power of officials is a constant source of irritation to everybody else.

In a democracy it is necessary that people should learn to endure having their sentiments outraged.

Writing can be either readable or precise, but not at the same time.

As for earthquakes, though they were still formidable, they were so interesting that men of science could hardly regret them.

When Benjamin Franklin invented the lightning-rod, the clergy, both in England and America, with enthusiastic support of George III, condemned it as an impious attempt to defeat the will of God.

No; we have been as usual asking the wrong question. It does not matter a hoot what the mockingbird on the chimney is singing. The real and proper question is: Why is it beautiful?