Of course I don’t believe in it. But I understand that it brings you luck whether you believe in it or not.

Niels Bohr (1885-1962) Danish physicist

(Attributed)

When asked why he had a horseshoe on his wall.

Variants:

• "Of course I don't believe in such nonsense. However, I've been told that a horseshoe brings you good luck whether you believe in it or not."
• "I believe in no such thing, my good friend. Not at all. I am scarcely likely to believe in such foolish nonsense. However, I am told that a horseshoe will bring you good luck whether you believe in it or not."