Much of the research into humans' risk-avoidance machinery shows that it is antiquated and unfit for the modern world; it is made to counter repeatable attacks and learn from specifics. If someone narrowly escapes being eaten by a tiger in a certain cave, then he learns to avoid that cave.

An idea starts to be interesting when you get scared of taking it to its logical conclusion.

Never ask anyone for their opinion, forecast, or recommendation. Just ask them what they have—or don’t have—in their portfolio.

You will get the most attention from those who hate you. No friend, no admirer and no partner will flatter you with as much curiosity.

This is the tragedy of modernity: as with neurotically overprotective parents, those trying to help are often hurting us the most.

To bankrupt a fool, give him information.

It is much harder to become independent if you are wealthy than to become wealthy if you are independent.