William James

Pragmatism, psychology

Modern influential 70 sayings

Sayings by William James

Man, biologically considered, and whatever else he may be into the bargain, is the most formidable of all the beasts of prey, and, indeed, the only one that preys systematically on its own species.

1910 — The Moral Equivalent of War
Humorous Unverifiable

The world is all the richer for having a devil in it, so long as we keep our foot upon his neck.

Unknown — Attributed, often quoted.
Humorous Unverifiable

The first thing to learn in intercourse with others is non-interference with their own peculiar ways of being happy.

Unknown — Attributed, often quoted.
Humorous Unverifiable

Our faith is faith in some one else's faith, and in the greatest matters this is most true.

1896 — The Will to Believe
Humorous Unverifiable

Men differ from each other in nothing so much as in the way in which they come to perceive.

Unknown — Attributed, often quoted.
Humorous Unverifiable

The world is not a place where we are to be made happy, but where we are to be made useful.

Unknown — Attributed, often quoted.
Humorous Unverifiable

A man's religion is the most important thing about him.

Unknown — Attributed, often quoted.
Humorous Unverifiable

The moment of creative energy is the moment of choice.

Unknown — Attributed, often quoted.
Humorous Unverifiable

The more things a man is interested in, the more opportunities of happiness he has.

Unknown — Attributed, often quoted.
Humorous Unverifiable

The world is still in the making, and awaits our co-operation.

1909 — A Pluralistic Universe
Humorous Unverifiable