Joseph Butler Quotes
Joseph Butler was an English Anglican bishop and one of the most important moral philosophers of the eighteenth century. His Fifteen Sermons preached at the Rolls Chapel developed a powerful account of human nature, in which self-love, particular passions, and conscience are arranged as a hierarchy whose proper exercise constitutes the virtuous life. The quotes below are attributed to Joseph Butler, organized by topic.
Joseph Butler on Knowledge
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Attributed to Joseph Butler:
“Probability is the very guide of life.”
Joseph Butler on Love
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Attributed to Joseph Butler:
“Self-love and benevolence are not at odds.”
Joseph Butler on Truth
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Attributed to Joseph Butler:
“Things and actions are what they are, and the consequences of them will be what they will be: why then should we desire to be deceived?”
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Attributed to Joseph Butler:
“Everything is what it is, and not another thing.”
Joseph Butler on Virtue
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Attributed to Joseph Butler:
“Every man is already in possession of conscience, the supreme principle within him.”
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Attributed to Joseph Butler:
“Conscience is the supreme principle of human nature.”