According to Democritus, truth lies at the bottom of a well, the water of which serves as a mirror in which objects may be reflected. I have heard, however, that some philosophers, in seeking for truth, to pay homage to her, have seen their own image and adored it instead.

Refining is inevitable in science when you have made measurements of a phenomenon for a long period of time.

I have a sense of humor; but over the years that sense has developed one blind spot. I can no longer laugh at ignorance or stupidity. Those are our chief enemies, and it is dangerous to make fun of them.

Most loss of life and property has been due to the collapse of antiquated and unsafe structures, mostly of brick and other masonry. ... There is progress of California toward building new construction according to earthquake-resistant design. We would have less reason to ask for earthquake prediction if this was universal.

There is nothing more beautiful than cheerfulness in an old face, and among country people it is always a sign of a well-regulated life.

No joy in nature is so sublimely affecting as the joy of a mother at the good fortune of a child.

Only fools, liars, and charlatans predict earthquakes