James Burgh (1714 – 1775)
British Whig politician whose book Political Disquisitions set out an early case for free speech and universal suffrage.
There is an affected humility more unsufferable than downright pride, as hypocrisy is more abominable than libertimsm. Take care that your virtues be genuine and unsophisticated.
He who knows the world will not be too bashful. He who knows himself will not be impudent.
In disputes upon moral or scientific points, ever let your aim be to come at truth, not to conquer your opponent: so you never shall be at a loss in losing the argument, and gaining a new discovery.
If you mean to make your side of the argument appear plausible, do not prejudice the people against what you think truth by your passionate manner of defending it.
What may be very entertaining in company with ignorant people may be tiresome to those who know more of the matter.