From the failure of the humanist tradition to participate fully or to act decisively, civilizations may perhaps crumble or perish at the hands of barbarians. But unless the humanist tradition itself in some form survives, there can really be no civilization at all.

It is disgusting to pick your teeth; what is vulgar is to use a gold toothpick.

One of the misfortunes of our time is that in getting rid of false shame, we have killed off so much real shame as well.

Someone who gossips well has a reputation for being good company or even a wit, never for being a gossip.

In the history of mankind, fanaticism has caused more harm than vice.

Many people today don't want honest answers insofar as honest means unpleasant or disturbing, They want a soft answer that turneth away anxiety.

The Englishman wants to be recognized as a gentleman, or as some other suitable species of human being; the American wants to be considered a good guy.