There are two processes which we adopt consciously or unconsciously when we try to prophesy. We can seek a period in the past whose conditions resemble as closely as possible those of our day, and presume that the sequel to that period will, save for some minor alterations, be similar. Secondly, we can survey the general course of development in our immediate past, and endeavor to prolong it into the near future. The first is the method the historian; the second that of the scientist. Only the second is open to us now, and this only in a partial sphere.

The man who stands firm in order to protect a sand-castle can never be relied upon; for he has given away his common sense.

Never, never, never believe any war will be smooth and easy, or that anyone who embarks on the strange voyage can measure the tides and hurricanes he will encounter. The statesman who yields to war fever must realize that once the signal is given, he is no longer the master of policy but the slave of unforeseeable and uncontrollable events.

You leave out God, and you substitute the devil.

I'd rather argue against a hundred idiots, than have one agree with me.

No idea is so outlandish that it should not be considered with a searching but at the same time a steady eye.

I love learning, but hate being taught.