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Ludwig von Mises: "Despots and democratic majorities are drunk with power. They must reluctantly admit that they are subject to the laws of nature. But they reject the very notion of economic law . . . economic history is a long record of government policies that failed because they were designed with a bold disregard for the laws of economics." - Austrian Economics: An Anthology


Quotable MisesThis database of quotations from Mises was prepared for The Quotable Mises edited by Mark Thornton, available from the Mises Institute store for $20. Send corrections to the editor. Here is a source page on the editions of the books referenced.

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AuthorQuoteSourcePageSubject
Ludwig von MisesIn all nations and in all periods of history, intellectual exploits were the work of a few men and were appreciated only by a small elite. The many looked upon these feats with hatred and disdain, at best with indifference.Austrian Economics: An Anthology p. 58Genius
Ludwig von MisesEverything that is thought, done and accomplished is a performance of individuals. New ideas and innovations are always an achievement of uncommon men.Human Action pp. 859-60; p. 863Genius
Ludwig von MisesGenius does not allow itself to be hindered by any consideration for the comfort of its fellowseven of those closest to it.Socialism p. 85Genius
Ludwig von MisesThe creative spirit innovates necessarily. It must press forward. It must destroy the old and set the new in its place…. Progress cannot be organized.Socialism p. 167Genius
Ludwig von MisesTo see and to act in advance, to follow new ways, is always the concern only of the few, the leaders.Socialism p. 188Genius
Ludwig von MisesIt is characteristic of very great persons to move forward to highest accomplishment out of an inner drive; others require an external impulse to overcome deep-rooted inertia and to develop their own selves.Nation, State, and Economy p. 213Genius
Ludwig von MisesWhat counts is not the data, but the mind that deals with them…. Galileo was certainly not the first to observe the swinging motion of the chandelier in the cathedral at Pisa.Epistemological Problems of Economics p. 71Genius
Ludwig von MisesIt is merely the routine of scientific procedure that can be taught and presented in textbooks. The power to accomplish feats of scientific achievement can be awakened only in one who already possesses the necessary intellectual gifts and strength of character.Epistemological Problems of Economics pp. 7172Genius
Ludwig von MisesThe first thing a genius needs is to breathe free air.The Anti-Capitalistic Mentality p. 108Genius
Ludwig von MisesGenius does not allow itself to be hindered by any consideration for the comfort of its fellowseven of those closest to it.Socialism pp. 85-86Genius