All deductions having been made, democracy has done less harm, and more good, than any other form of government. It gave to human existence a zest and camaraderie that outweighed its pitfalls and defects. It gave to thought and science and enterprise the freedom essential to their operation and growth. It broke down the walls of privilege and class, and in each generation it raised up ability from every rank and place.

The individual succumbs, but he does not die if he has left something to mankind.

Truth always originates in a minority of one, and every custom begins as a broken precedent.

Those who have suffered much become very bitter or very gentle.

It came to me that reform should begin at home, and since that day I have not had time to remake the world.

The experience of the past lives little doubt that every economic system must sooner or later rely upon some form of the profit motive to stir individuals and groups to productivity. Substitutes like slavery, police supervision, or ideological enthusiasm prove too unproductive, too expensive, or too transient.

The world wisely prefers happiness to wisdom.