Robert King Merton, sociologist (1910-2003)

Most institutions demand unqualified faith; but the institution of science makes skepticism a virtue. -Robert King Merton, sociologist (1910-2003)

Demand? Unqualified? A little strong for most institutions.

Voltaire, philosopher (1694-1778)

It is lamentable, that to be a good patriot one must become the enemy of the rest of mankind. -Voltaire, philosopher (1694-1778)

This isn’t really true, though in some times and places, or perhaps even in all times and all places, some people, have been infected by this idea. True patriotism can coexist in the same heart and mind with the appropriate love of mankind.

Rumi, poet and mystic (1207-1273)

There is a field beyond all notions of right and wrong. Come, meet me there. -Rumi, poet and mystic (1207-1273)

It is a false and dangerous idea to think that there is any realm of human activity that is beyond considerations of right and wrong.

Samuel Butler, poet (1612-1680)

For blocks are better cleft with wedges,
Than tools of sharp or subtle edges,
And dullest nonsense has been found
By some to be the most profound. -Samuel Butler, poet (1612-1680)

A blockhead can’t be taught using subtle reasoning. Simple and direct is the way to go. Often this is the best approach even for people with open minds.

H.L. Mencken, writer, editor, and critic (1880-1956)

You can't do anything about the length of your life, but you can do something about its width and depth. -H.L. Mencken, writer, editor, and critic (1880-1956)

Good one. Although of course you can do something about the length of your life, at least to the effect of shortening it.