Self-denial is taught much better by inspiring the love of our neighbor, than by the prohibition of innocent comforts and pleasures. Spirituality is much better taught by making spiritual things the objects of supreme desire, than by commanding an ostentatious avoidance of the enjoyments of life.
Harriet MartineauIn the United States, as elsewhere, there are, and have always been, two parties in politics ... It is remarkable how nearly their positive statements of political doctrine agree, while they differ in almost every possible application of their common principles.
Harriet MartineauI have no sympathy for those who, under any pressure of circumstances, sacrifice their heart's-love for legal prostitution.
Harriet Martineau. . . is it to be understood that the principles of the Declaration of Independence bear no relation to half of the human race?
Harriet MartineauIf a test of civilization be sought, none can be so sure as the condition of that half of society over which the other half has power.
Harriet Martineau[On being deaf:] We can never get beyond the necessity of keeping in full view the worst and the best that can be made of our lot. The worst is, either to sink under the trial, or to be made callous by it. The best is, to be as wise as is possible under a great disability, and as happy as is possible under a great privation.
Harriet Martineau