By subscribing to Inspiring Quotes you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
One of the most prominent intellectuals of the 20th century, Bertrand Russell was a polymath who believed that ideas could change the world. In addition to being a mathematician, philosopher, and preeminent logician, he was also a humanist and a pacifist whose ideas at times proved controversial — his pacifism during World War I, for instance, earned him a six-month spell in prison. In a December 1951 issue of “The New York Times Magazine,” Russell published his “ten commandments” of critical thinking, including the one featured here. He reminds us that although our thoughts and ideas may not be accepted at first, every great thought and idea once had to face its share of skepticism and naysayers.

The Most Romantic Song Lyrics Ever Written

17 Quotes To Help You Embrace Imperfection

These “Monty Python” Quotes Are the True “Holy Grail”

Life-Affirming Quotes About Human Connection

Quotes From 11 Movies Guaranteed To Make You Feel Good

12 Quotes for When You’re Feeling Overstimulated

12 Beautiful Thoughts From Environmentalist Aldo Leopold

20 Quotes for Coffee Lovers

13 Hilarious Lines From History’s Funniest Poets

20 of the Most Popular Quotes of All Time

14 Quotes Guaranteed To Make You Crave Chocolate