Joseph Priestley

Chemistry British 1733 – 1804 250 quotes

He is credited with the discovery of oxygen and several other gases.

Quotes by Joseph Priestley

The only foundation of government is the consent of the governed.

An Essay on the First Principles of Government 1768

The doctrine of the immateriality of the soul is a philosophical error, and not a scriptural truth.

Disquisitions relating to Matter and Spirit 1777

The proper business of a Christian is to do good to all men.

Various writings

The progress of knowledge is the great instrument of human improvement.

Various writings

The doctrine of eternal damnation is repugnant to the goodness of God.

History of the Corruptions of Christianity

The true method of philosophizing is to begin with facts, and to proceed to general principles.

Various writings

The only legitimate use of power is to promote the happiness of mankind.

Various writings

The more we study nature, the more we shall be convinced of the wisdom and power of its author.

Various writings

The greatest obstacle to the progress of truth is the attachment to old opinions.

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The proper object of government is not to make men religious, but to make them happy.

An Essay on the First Principles of Government 1768

The doctrine of the atonement, as commonly understood, is a corruption of Christianity.

History of the Corruptions of Christianity

The true end of science is not merely to gratify curiosity, but to improve the condition of human life.

Various writings

The more we know of the laws of nature, the more we shall be able to control and direct them to our own advantage.

Various writings

The greatest discovery of all is the discovery of truth.

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The only true worship of God is to do his will.

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The proper business of a philosopher is to inquire into the causes of things.

Various writings

The doctrine of predestination is inconsistent with the moral attributes of God.

History of the Corruptions of Christianity

The more we cultivate our reason, the more we shall be able to distinguish truth from error.

Various writings

The greatest happiness of the greatest number is the foundation of morality and government.

An Essay on the First Principles of Government 1768

The true spirit of Christianity is a spirit of universal benevolence.

Various writings