Bertrand Russell on war

War does not determine who is right, only who is left.

~ Bertrand Russell

Bertrand Russell on critical thinking

If an opinion contrary to your own makes you angry, that is a sign that you are subconsciously aware of having no good reason for thinking as you do.

~ Bertrand Russell

Bertrand Russell on the difference between ignorance and stupidity

Men are born ignorant, not stupid.  They are made stupid by education.

~ Bertrand Russell

Bertrand Russell on confirmation bias

What a man believes upon grossly insufficient evidence is an index into his desires -- desires of which he himself is often unconscious.  If a man is offered a fact which goes against his instincts, he will scrutinize it closely, and unless the evidence is overwhelming, he will refuse to believe it.  If, on the other hand, he is offered something which affords a reason for acting in accordance to his instincts, he will accept it even on the slightest evidence.  The origin of myths is explained in this way.

~ Bertrand Russell, Roads to Freedom

Bertrand Russell on conquering fear

Fear is the main source of superstition, and one of the main sources of cruelty.  To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom.

~ Bertrand Russell