Authors

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: 11

Quotes by Bertrand Russell

The trouble with always trying to preserve the health of the body is that it's so difficult to do without destroying the health of the mind. — Bertrand Russell

Health Without Sacrificing the Life of Mind

Bertrand Russell’s remark points to a subtle danger in the pursuit of physical well-being: the body can become such an object of vigilance that it crowds out mental freedom. In other words, health ceases to be a foundati...

Created on: 3/28/2026

Fear is the main source of superstition, and one of the main sources of cruelty. — Bertrand Russell

Fear: The Root of Superstition and Cruelty - Bertrand Russell

This quote suggests that fear heavily influences human thinking and behavior.

Created on: 4/26/2025

Do not fear to be eccentric in opinion, for every opinion now accepted was once eccentric. — Bertrand Russell

Do Not Fear to Be Eccentric in Opinion — Bertrand Russell

This quote by Bertrand Russell encourages individuals to embrace original and unconventional ideas. Many widely accepted truths and norms began as radical or eccentric opinions, emphasizing the importance of thinking ind...

Created on: 3/31/2025

The trouble with the world is that the stupid are cocky and the intelligent are full of doubt. — Bertrand Russell

The Trouble with the World - Bertrand Russell

This quote highlights the phenomenon where individuals with limited knowledge or understanding are often overconfident, while those with greater intelligence or expertise tend to question themselves and their conclusions...

Created on: 2/4/2025

The Good Life Is One Inspired by Love and Guided by Knowledge — Bertrand Russell

Russell highlights the importance of balancing emotional inspiration with intellectual guidance. Love provides the emotional drive, while knowledge ensures thoughtful and reasoned actions.

Created on: 11/19/2024

To Overcome Fear Is the Beginning of Wisdom - Bertrand Russell

This quote highlights the idea that fear can be a significant barrier to personal growth and understanding. By facing and overcoming fear, individuals can pave the way for deeper insights and wisdom.

Created on: 9/11/2024

The world is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper. — Bertrand Russell

The World is Full of Magical Things Waiting for Our Wits to Grow Sharper - Bertrand Russell

This quote suggests that the world is brimming with fascinating and magical elements that are not immediately obvious to us but are waiting to be discovered as our understanding and perception improve.

Created on: 7/8/2024