The difference between a crime of evil and a crime of illness is the difference between a sin and a symptom.

Incompetence is certainty in the absence of expertise. Overconfidence is certainty in the presence of expertise.

The single most important thing a city can do is provide a community where interesting, smart people want to live with their families.

I interviewed one of the most powerful lawyers in the world and he told me, "At the time, it was the worst thing in the world not to be able to get a job at a fancy law firm, but it's the greatest thing that ever happened in my life." It was a humble acknowledgment of how forces much larger than himself shaped his career. I really wanted to bring that point home.

There's no idea that can't be explained to a thoughtful 14-year-old. If the thoughtful 14-year-old doesn't get it, it is your fault, not the 14-year-old's.

...If you work hard enough and assert yourself, and use your mind and imagination, you can shape the world to your desires. (151)

I've been in auditions without screens, and I can assure you that I was prejudiced. I began to listen with my eyes, and there is no way that your eyes don't affect your judgement. The only true way to listen is with your ears and your heart. (p.251)