Wisdom Quotes

The best minds across centuries have wrestled with what it means to be wise. These quotes capture their hard-won insights.

64329 quotes

D
"The best journalists are those who listen more than they speak."
Dan Rather
D
"The capacity to change one's mind in light of new evidence is a sign of wisdom, not weakness."
Dan Rather
C
"You cannot prevent the birds of sorrow from flying over your head, but you can prevent them from building nests in your hair."
Christiane Amanpour
C
"Wisdom comes from experience and reflection."
Christiane Amanpour
I
"Virtue knows no color line."
Ida B. Wells
I
"Character and integrity are more valuable than any material possession."
Ida B. Wells
I
"Speak with authority about your own experience and observations."
Ida B. Wells
I
"Let us ensure that future generations do not repeat our mistakes."
Ida B. Wells
"Success means different things at different stages of your life."
Barbara Walters
"Age brings perspective, but it shouldn't bring complacency."
Barbara Walters
"I learned early that listening is a superpower most people ignore."
Barbara Walters
"Wisdom comes not from experience but from reflection on experience."
Barbara Walters
B
"Great reporting requires skepticism paired with an open mind."
Bob Woodward
B
"Understanding the motivations of those in power is half the battle."
Bob Woodward
B
"Trust your sources, but verify their information independently."
Bob Woodward
B
"The most important phrase in journalism is 'I don't know, but I'll find out.'"
Bob Woodward
"The measure of a society is how it treats those who challenge it."
Edward Snowden
"The powerful prefer comfortable lies to uncomfortable truths."
Edward Snowden
"A society that cannot tolerate criticism cannot improve."
Edward Snowden
"The state's fear of transparency reveals its intentions."
Edward Snowden
"Civilization is measured by how it treats the vulnerable."
Edward Snowden
"A government that fears its people is a government that knows it's wrong."
Edward Snowden
D
"To understand the future, you must first truly understand the past."
Dan Rather
D
"In communication, clarity always trumps cleverness."
Dan Rather
D
"Wisdom whispers while folly shouts."
Dan Rather
"Never underestimate the power of listening. People want to be heard."
Barbara Walters
"Life teaches you the most valuable lessons when you're ready to listen."
Barbara Walters
"Intelligence combined with kindness is the most powerful combination."
Barbara Walters
"I believe every person has a story worth telling and hearing."
Barbara Walters
W
"The best things in life are often hidden under layers of difficulty."
Walter Cronkite