Bertrand Russell Quotes

About Bertrand Russell

British philosopher, logician, and Nobel laureate. He co-authored Principia Mathematica, helped found analytic philosophy. A public intellectual, he influenced logic, mathematics, and ethics, and championed humanitarian ideals and freedom of thought throughout the 20th century.

Quote

Of all forms of caution, caution in love is perhaps the most fatal to true happiness.

—  Bertrand Russell

Insight

You cannot experience deep connection while keeping one foot out the door for safety.

Actionable Takeaways

  • Express one honest feeling.
  • Text people you care about without waiting first.
  • After good moments, say "I'm glad you're here" aloud.
Source: The Conquest of Happiness

Quote

Do not fear to be eccentric in opinion, for every opinion now accepted was once eccentric.

—  Bertrand Russell

Insight

Conformity offers safety, but independent thinking offers the chance for discovery.

Actionable Takeaways

  • Read one article from a viewpoint you disagree with.
  • After group agreement forms, ask "what would contradict this?".