A king is a thing men have made for their own sakes, for quietness sake. Just as in a family one man is appointed to buy the meat.
John Selden

Idolatry is in a man's own thought, not in the opinion of another.
John Selden

In quoting of books, quote such authors as are usually read; others you may read for your own satisfaction, but not name them.
John Selden

It's not the drinking to be blamed, but the excess.
John Selden

No man is the wiser for his learning; it may administer matter to work in, or objects to work upon; but wit and wisdom are born with a man.
John Selden

Of all actions of a man's life, his marriage does least concern other people, yet of all actions of our life tis most meddled with by other people.
John Selden

Old friends are best.
John Selden

Philosophy is nothing but discretion.
John Selden

Pleasure is nothing else but the intermission of pain.
John Selden

Prayer should be short, without giving God Almighty reasons why he should grant this, or that; he knows best what is good for us.
John Selden


The world cannot be governed without juggling.
John Selden

They that are against superstition oftentimes run into it of the wrong side. If I wear all colors but black, then I am superstitious in not wearing black.
John Selden

They that govern the most make the least noise.
John Selden

Tis not seasonable to call a man traitor, that has an army at his heels.
John Selden

Wise people say nothing in dangerous times.
John Selden