Thilini

“For the last century, almost all top political appointments [on the planet Earth] had been made by random computer selection from the pool of individuals who had the necessary qualifications. It had taken the human race several thousand years to realize that there were some jobs that should never be given to the people who volunteered for them, especially if they showed too much enthusiasm. As one shrewed political commentator had remarked: “We want a President who has to be carried screaming and kicking into the White House — but will then do the best job he possibly can, so that he’ll get time off for good behavior.”
― Arthur C. Clarke, Imperial Earth

“One of the great tragedies of mankind is that morality has been hijacked by religion. So now people assume that religion and morality have a necessary connection. But the basis of morality is really very simple and doesn't require religion at all.”
― Arthur C. Clarke

“it is well known that a vital ingredient of success is not knowing that what you’re attempting can’t be done.”
― Terry Pratchett, Equal Rites

“Ask not the elves for advice, because they will tell you both 'yes' and 'no'.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien