Governments exist to protect the rights of minorities. The loved and the rich need no protection: they have many friends and few enemies.

Government began in tyranny and force, began in the feudalism of the soldier and bigotry of the priest; and the ideas of justice and humanity have been fighting their way, like a thunderstorm, against the organized selfishness of human nature.

On a single winged word hath hung the destiny of nations.

The community which does not protect its humblest and most hated member in the free utterance of his opinions, no matter how false or hateful, is only a gang of slaves. If there is anything in the universe that can't stand discussion, let it crack.

The labor movement means just this: It is the last noble protest of the American people against the power of incorporated wealth.

Physical bravery is an animal instinct; moral bravery is much higher and truer courage.

The Puritan's idea of hell is a place where everybody has to mind his own business.