Bertrand Russell
Bertrand Russell (1872–1970) was a British philosopher, logician, mathematician, and social critic influential in analytic philosophy and mathematical logic. He won the 1950 Nobel Prize in Literature and wrote extensively on ethics and society; the quoted line reflects his view that limited desires contribute to happiness.
Quotes by Bertrand Russell
Quotes: 10
From Inner Strength to the Threshold of Victory
Thus, Russell’s insight is timeless: the metamorphosis from strength to victory is not only strategic but profoundly hopeful. It reassures individuals facing daunting odds that every small act of resistance, grounded in personal strength, furthers the march toward triumph. This philosophy continues to empower activists, leaders, and everyday people striving for justice and positive transformation in their own lives and communities. [...]
Created on: 5/5/2025
Fear: The Root of Superstition and Cruelty - Bertrand Russell
Superstitions often arise as people try to explain or control what frightens them. [...]
Created on: 4/26/2025
Do Not Fear to Be Eccentric in Opinion — Bertrand Russell
Historically, many key figures—from Galileo to Martin Luther King Jr.—held opinions considered eccentric in their time, which later became foundational to progress in their fields or societies. [...]
Created on: 3/31/2025
The Trouble with the World - Bertrand Russell
Russell suggests that this imbalance of confidence leads to problems in the world, as the voices of the overconfident drown out those of more knowledgeable individuals, leading to poor decision-making and misguided actions on societal and global scales. [...]
Created on: 2/4/2025
The Good Life Is One Inspired by Love and Guided by Knowledge — Bertrand Russell
As a philosopher, Bertrand Russell believed in the marriage of ethics and wisdom. This quote illustrates his commitment to living a meaningful life, not just by caring for others but by making wise, knowledge-based decisions. [...]
Created on: 11/19/2024
To Overcome Fear Is the Beginning of Wisdom - Bertrand Russell
The quote implies that wisdom is not an end state but rather a journey that begins with facing one's fears. It emphasizes the continuous process of learning that comes from overcoming challenges. [...]
Created on: 9/11/2024
The World is Full of Magical Things Waiting for Our Wits to Grow Sharper - Bertrand Russell
The use of the word 'patiently' indicates that these magical things are enduring and await our discovery. It implies that the beauty and mystery of the world are constant, and it is up to us to uncover them with time and effort. [...]
Created on: 7/8/2024