It is possible to lead astray an entire generation, to strike it blind, to drive it insane, to direct it towards a false goal. Napoleon proved this. – Alexander Herzen
Would it be possible to stand still on one spot more majestically — while simulating a triumphant march forward — than it is done by the two English Houses of Parliament? – Alexander Herzen
No one is to blame. It is neither their fault nor ours. It is the misfortune of being born when a whole world is dying. – Alexander Herzen
Liberalism, austere in political trifles, has learned ever more artfully to unite a constant protest against the government with a constant submission to it. – Alexander Herzen
Practical life teaches us that people may differ and that both may be wrong: it also teaches us that people may differ and both be right. Anchor yourself fast in the latter faith, or the former will sweep your heart away. – Augustus William Hare and Julius Charles Hare, Guesses at Truth, by Two Brothers