William F. Buckley, Jr., an American journalist and conservative commentator, founded the National Review and played a leading role in the conservative movement in the United States. His articulate defense of traditional values and free-market principles shaped conservative thought for decades. Buckley's wit, intellect, and eloquence made him a formidable voice in American politics and media.

"A Conservative is a fellow who is standing athwart history yelling 'Stop!'"



"I would like to electrocute everyone who uses the word "fair" in connection with income tax policies."



"There is an inverse relationship between reliance on the state and self-reliance."



"Even if one takes every reefer madness allegation of the prohibitionists at face value, marijuana prohibition has done far more harm to far more people than marijuana ever could."



"I won't insult your intelligence by suggesting that you really believe what you just said."


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"It is not a sign of arrogance for the king to rule. That is what he is there for."



"The best defense against usurpatory government is an assertive citizenry."



"I get satisfaction of three kinds. One is creating something, one is being paid for it and one is the feeling that I haven't just been sitting on my ass all afternoon."



"The more complicated and powerful the job, the more rudimentary the preparation for it."



"I profoundly believe it takes a lot of practice to become a moral slob."



"I would like to take you seriously, but to do so would affront your intelligence."



"Scientists are people who build the Brooklyn Bridge and then buy it."


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"Idealism is fine, but as it approaches reality, the costs become prohibitive."



"It seems to me that the idea traditionally defended of endeavoring to maintain existing ethnic balances simply doesn't work any more."



"One must bear in mind that the expansion of federal activity is a form of eating for politicians."



"Life can't be all bad when for ten dollars you can buy all the Beethoven sonatas and listen to them for ten years."



"I'd rather entrust the government of the United States to the first 400 people listed in the Boston telephone directory than to the faculty of Harvard University."

