Bentham on four permissible lies

1. In some cases, departure from truth is prescribed by the moral sanction as a duty: such are all those in which mischief to another would be the certain or probable effect of verity, while from falsity no evil at all, or at least no equal evil, will, with equal probability, be the result: as, … Continue reading Bentham on four permissible lies →

Meaning of Patriotism

“patriotism is a word; and one that generally comes to mean either my country, right or wrong, which is infamous, or my country is always right, which is imbecile.” (Patrick O’Brian, Master and Commander)

From the wisdom of Seneca

[W]hat is there to wonder at in bad men committing evil deeds? what novelty is there in your enemy hurting you, your friend quarrelling with you, your son going wrong, or your servant doing amiss? Fabius was wont to say that the most shameful excuse a general could make was “I did not think.” I … Continue reading From the wisdom of Seneca →

W. S. Gilbert on English politicians

When in that House M.P.'s divide,If they’ve a brain and cerebellum, too,They’ve got to leave that brain outside,And vote just as their leaders tell 'em to.But then the prospect of a lotOf dull M. P.’s in close proximity,All thinking for themselves, is whatNo man can face with equanimity. (W. S. Gilbert, Iolanthe)

Daniel Defoe on English politicians

Fools out of Favour grudge at Knaves in Place,And men are always honest in Disgrace:The Court-Preferments make men Knaves in course:But they which wou'd be in them wou'd be worse.'Tis not at Foreigners that we repine,Wou'd Foreigners their Perquisites resign:The Grand Contention's plainly to be seen,To get some men put out, and some put in.For … Continue reading Daniel Defoe on English politicians →