[T]he laws of probability, so true in general, so fallacious in particular ….
Quotations by:
Gibbon, Edward
I never make the mistake of arguing with people for whose opinions I have no respect.
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)
Conversation enriches the understanding, but solitude is the school of genius.
Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) English historian
Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, Vol. 5, ch. 50 (1788)
(Source)
The first and indispensable requisite of happiness is a clear conscience.
Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) English historian
Memoirs of My Life and Writings (1796)
I am indeed rich, since my income is superior to my expense, and my expense is equal to my wishes.
Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) English historian
Memoirs of My Life and Writings (1796)
When I contemplate the common lot of mortality, I must acknowledge that I have drawn a high prize in the lottery of life … the double fortune of my birth in a free and enlightened country, in an honourable and wealthy family, is the lucky chance of an unit against millions.
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)