Every man who rises above the common level has received two educations: the first from his teachers; the second, more personal and important, from himself. Edward Gibbon Teacher
Unprovided with original learning, unformed in the habits of thinking, unskilled in the arts of composition, I resolved to write a book. Edward Gibbon Learning
I understand by this passion the union of desire, friendship, and tenderness, which is inflamed by a single female, which prefers her to the rest of her sex, and which seeks her possession as the supreme or the sole happiness of our being. Edward Gibbon Friendship
The courage of a soldier is found to be the cheapest and most common quality of human nature. Edward Gibbon Courage
History is indeed little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind. Edward Gibbon History
I never make the mistake of arguing with people for whose opinions I have no respect. Edward Gibbon Respect