It took us a while to discover that we do effectively think, but that we more readily narrate backward in order to give ourselves the illusion of understanding, and give a cover to our past actions.

Missing a train is only painful if you run after it! Likewise, not matching the idea of success others expect from you is only painful if that’s what you are seeking.

You cannot do anything with knowledge unless you know where it stops, and the costs of using it.

A theory is like medicine (or government): often useless, sometimes necessary, always self-serving, and on occasion lethal. So it needs to be used with care, moderation and close adult supervision.

The problem is that our ideas are sticky: once we produce a theory, we are not likely to change our minds....

Know how to rank your beliefs not according to their plausibility but by the harm they may cause.

I'm gluten intolerant, so that automatically cuts carbs from my diet.

What do you know? Haven't you heard of suspension of disbelief?

He had known the love that is fed on caresses and feeds them; but this passion that was closer than his bones was not to be superficially satisfied.

A simple life is its own reward.

Sometimes, I stood at the front of the E train, watching the tunnel ahead, imagining what Anthem would look like on stage.

It sometimes takes a while for executives to figure out that the reporters they think of as little bugs to be squashed or spun can be more powerful than they are.

One of the most difficult things is not to change society - but to change yourself.

There's little comfort in the wise

Emotions kick up. You try not to kick things up, but you go through things you can't help.