John Selden

Philosophy is nothing but discretion.

Wise people say nothing in dangerous times.

The world cannot be governed without juggling.

Of all actions of a man's life, his marriage does least concern other people, yet of all actions of our life tis most meddled with by other people.

No man is the wiser for his learning; it may administer matter to work in, or objects to work upon; but wit and wisdom are born with a man.

Pleasure is nothing else but the intermission of pain.

They that are against superstition oftentimes run into it of the wrong side. If I wear all colors but black, then I am superstitious in not wearing black.

A king is a thing men have made for their own sakes, for quietness sake. Just as in a family one man is appointed to buy the meat.

Prayer should be short, without giving God Almighty reasons why he should grant this, or that; he knows best what is good for us.