WIST

[T]he laws of probability, so true in general, so fallacious in particular ….

Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) English historian
“Memoirs of My Life and Writings” (1787)
Full text.

Conversation enriches the understanding, but solitude is the school of the genius.

Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) English historian
(Attributed)

The various modes of worship, which prevailed in the Roman world, were all considered by the people as equally true; by the philosopher, as equally false; and by the magistrate, as equally useful. And thus toleration produced not only mutual indulgence, but even religious accord.

Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) English historian
Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, ch. 2 (1776-88)

Augustus … [was not] deceived in his expectation that the senate and people would submit to slavery, provided they were respectfully assured that they still enjoyed their ancient freedom.

Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) English historian
Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, ch. 3 (1776-88)

The first and indispensable requisite of happiness is a clear conscience.

Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) English historian
Memoirs of My Life and Writings (1796)

The wind and waves are always on the side of the ablest navigators.

Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) English historian
The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, ch. 68 (1776-88)

Of the various forms of government which have prevailed in the world, an hereditary monarchy seems to present the fairest scope for ridicule.

Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) English historian
The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, ch. 7 (1776-88)