Quotes That Make Me Laugh

Posted on May 12, 2017 by Jean

One should respect public opinion insofar as is necessary to avoid starvation and keep out of prison, but anything that goes beyond this is voluntary submission to an unnecessary tyranny.
—Bertrand Russell

This quote makes me laugh every time I think of it, partially because it reminds me of Thoreau’s,

The greater part of what my neighbors call good I believe in my soul to be bad, and if I repent of anything, it is very likely to be my good behavior. What demon possessed me that I behaved so well?”

Russell’s quote describes my life more than Thoreau’s does. Do you relate to either of them?

May 12, 2017

 

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8 Responses to Quotes That Make Me Laugh

  1. Ursula says:
    May 12, 2017 at 5:42 am

    I don’t relate to Thoreau’s quote. Why self aggrandize on the back of others, making others look small?

    Bertrand Russell? Trouble with him, and such is his authority, that anything he says sounds good. Doesn’t mean it is.

    U

  2. tammy j says:
    May 12, 2017 at 9:21 am

    thinking in terms of today’s political climate. . .
    and especially living in a state that is unfortunately TOTALLY pro-trump
    and I mean totally. from governor and congressmen and the majority of voters.
    I have to agree with both quotes.
    especially…
    The greater part of what my neighbors call good I believe in my soul to be bad

    • Jean says:
      May 12, 2017 at 6:55 pm

      Unfortunately about 84% of Republicans still support Trump, according to an article I just read. They are the ones that give Trump clout with Congress.

      Another Thoreau quote:

      If a man walks in the woods for love of them half of each day, he is in danger of being regarded as a loafer. But if he spends his days as a speculator, shearing off those woods and making the earth bald before her time, he is deemed an industrious and enterprising citizen.

      Things haven’t changed that much. At least in some areas.

  3. Rummuser says:
    May 12, 2017 at 10:30 am

    I don’t relate to either. I come from a different philosophical system than the ones that these two come from. Talking about my neighbours particularly can lead to all kinds of political incorrectness!

    • Jean says:
      May 12, 2017 at 6:56 pm

      As you know I was deeply influenced by that philosophical system when I was in high school. I was disappointed when I learned that most Indians didn’t practice it.

  4. nick says:
    May 12, 2017 at 10:31 am

    I agree with Russell. If public opinion is going to stop you being yourself, then don’t take any notice of it. I’m the only person who knows what’s best for my mind and soul. Public opinion is mostly a cloud of hot air.

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