William James describes a man who got the experience from laughing-gas; whenever he was under its influence, he knew the secret of the universe, but when he came to, he had forgotten it. At last, with immense effort, he wrote down the secret before the vision had faded. When completely recovered, he rushed to see what he had written. It was 'A smell of petroleum prevails throughout'. β¨ Bertrand Russell (2013). History of Western Philosophy: Collectors Edition, p.109, Routledge
More Author Quotes
- No satisfaction based upon self-deception is solid, and however unpleasant the truth may be, it is better to face it once and for all, to get used to it, and to proceed to build your life in accordan β¦ βΆ
- The governors of the world believe, and have always believed, that virtue can only be taught by teaching falsehood, and that any man who knew the truth would be wicked. I disbelieve this, absolutely β¦ βΆ
- It is possible that mankind is on the threshold of a golden age; but, if so, it will be necessary first to slay the dragon that guards the door, and this dragon is religion. β¨ Bertrand Russell (1957) β¦ βΆ
- Respectability, regularity, and routine - the whole cast-iron discipline of a modern industrial society - have atrophied the artistic impulse, and imprisoned love so that it can no longer be generous β¦ βΆ
- There's a Bible on that shelf there. But I keep it next to Voltaire - poison and antidote. β¨ Kenneth Harris Talking To: Bertrand Russell. 1971.
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