Quotes and Comments

About the Book

Understanding is one of life’s greatest and most overlooked pleasures. Bertrand Russell said “Most people would die sooner than think; in fact, they do so.” But for those who enjoy thinking, it is one of life’s greatest pleasures. We live in a day when education is valued for job preparation--rather than for seeking wisdom needed for life. Perhaps wisdom cannot be taught, but we do need to learn. This collection of quotations is from people ranging from world class scholars to people who will be shocked to know they are quoted in a book of philosophy. The collection does not push specific beliefs, but assumes that honest thinking must start by questioning one’s own beliefs and assumptions. The quotations often contradict each other. Their value is not in giving answers, but in stimulating us to seek answers true to our own experience. The author’s recent book Thoughts for Life: Reaching for Wisdom--God--Life (also printed by Xlibris) consists of aphorisms and apothegms anchored by essays and poems that attempt to combine intellectual integrity with a search for answers to those challenging questions that seek meaning in life.

About the Author

War and the early awareness of mortality challenged the author's generation to learn what life is all about. Because it is the primary religious question, he spent his life as a pastor, serving both rural parishes and the university world. Serving in the North Dakota Senate and on the DeKalb County Illinois Board he learned the practical value of philosophy. Many have asked why he became a pastor, but his concern for honest inquiry into questions of meaning and purpose still drive him in retirement. His thinking has been challenged and nourished by a great variety of people.