William Godwin, an English writer and philosopher, was a prominent figure in the Romantic movement and a pioneer of anarchist thought. His seminal work "Political Justice" advocated for individual freedom and social equality. Godwin's radical ideas and belief in the power of reason have influenced generations of political thinkers and social activists.
"It is probable that there is no one thing that it is of eminent importance for a child to learn."
"Above all we should not forget that government is an evil, a usurpation upon the private judgement and individual conscience of mankind."
"The execution of any thing considerable implies in the first place previous persevering meditation."
"Revolution is engendered by an indignation with tyranny, yet is itself pregnant with tyranny."
"There must be room for the imagination to exercise its powers; we must conceive and apprehend a thousand things which we do not actually witness."
"The philosophy of the wisest man that ever existed, is mainly derived from the act of introspection."
"There can be no passion, and by consequence no love, where there is not imagination."
"We cannot perform our tasks to the best of our power, unless we think well of our own capacity."
"Every man has a certain sphere of discretion which he has a right to expect shall not be infringed by his neighbours. This right flows from the very nature of man."
"Perseverance is an active principle, and cannot continue to operate but under the influence of desire."
"Government will not fail to employ education, to strengthen its hands, and perpetuate its institutions."
"The lessons of their early youth regulated the conduct of their riper years."