“Fear has had a huge impact on human societies throughout history, and as science and archaeology are increasingly suggesting through prehistory, too. But my main interest is in how fear has been used as an instrument of power, wielded by rulers to consolidate their authority, and to manage their populations.”
— Robert Peckham

The quote archive

Philosophy

A growing archive of 3,000+ moments, drawn from every interview.

I believe success and fame, especially fame, can instigate fundamental shifts within us at a cellular level. The very nature of fame is peculiar; it's akin to an insatiable flame that ceaselessly yearns for more, compelling you to endlessly seek something, despite its ultimate emptiness. To set fame as an objective can be likened to voluntarily stepping into a fire, with the inevitable outcome of being consumed.

— Andrew McCarthy

Actor known for 1980s films like "St. Elmo's Fire

One of my Zen mentors, Barry Magid, authored a book entitled 'Ending the Pursuit of Happiness'. In it, he criticises the concept of chasing happiness as a curative fantasy – the mistaken belief that happiness is an attainable, sustainable, and permanent state. The reality is, no one is in a state of perpetual happiness.

— Robert J. Waldinger

Director of Harvard Study of Adult Development & Psychiatrist

Born into a family where my father made about £35 a week and both of my parents worked tirelessly, we didn't have the luxury of material wealth. Yet, we were enveloped in an abundance of love, which I view as the ultimate luxury. This upbringing imbued me with empathy towards families facing similar circumstances.

— Ajaz Ahmed

The issue you're worried about, the one you're likely spending most of your time discussing, isn't the only problem in the world. We tend to lose sight of this because we often perceive our immediate tasks as the most crucial. Given the multitude of issues we need to address, the goal shouldn't be to resolve a single problem in an exhaustive and expensive way. Instead, we should aim to find an effective, low-cost strategy that addresses most of the problem, ensuring we preserve resources for other tasks.

— Bjørn Lomborg

Environmental Economist & Author Known for Challenging Climate Alarmism

The general body of research suggests a moderate positive correlation between religiosity and happiness. Religion provides a sense of community and cohesion within an in-group. It draws clear lines between in-group members, with whom I can engage in cooperative behaviour and reciprocal exchanges, and out-group members. Religion also offers purpose and meaning through a supernatural narrative.

— Gad Saad

Evolutionary Psychologist & Author Known for Consumer Behavior Research

Seneca elucidates how a tree needs exposure to wind stressors to grow strong and establish deep roots. Without such stressors, it becomes brittle and can break off easily. I argue that a crucial aspect of excelling at the game of life is to expose oneself to stressors that, hopefully, won't be fatal. As the saying goes, 'what does not kill you makes you stronger.'

— Gad Saad

Evolutionary Psychologist & Author Known for Consumer Behavior Research

My argument is that happiness shouldn't be pursued deliberately. Happiness is more of a by-product, a downstream effect of making sound decisions, and adopting the right mindset. I cite a quote from Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, in his book, 'Man's Search for Meaning'. He posits that success shouldn't be sought deliberately but rather, it's something that materialises when one is engaged in meaningful endeavours. This logic applies perfectly to happiness as well.

— Gad Saad

Evolutionary Psychologist & Author Known for Consumer Behavior Research

When I talk about happiness, envision yourself at the ripe age of 85, comfortably seated on that metaphorical porch, reflecting upon your life. You're thinking, 'Good heavens, I've genuinely led a fulfilling life. I've established a loving family, spent my life with an extraordinary partner, and devoted myself to a profession that's injected an immense sense of purpose into my existence. I have minimal regrets and have maintained a light-hearted, playful approach to life.' This, to me, is what I would categorise as a profound sense of existential happiness.

— Gad Saad

Evolutionary Psychologist & Author Known for Consumer Behavior Research

There's this wonderful intersection where I've personally felt successful for quite some time. I truly believe I'm living out my purpose. It reminds me of the saying, 'remember the time you wished for the things you have now.' I'm living that dream.

— Roxie Nafousi

When jealousy or envy creeps in, acknowledge it; everyone feels it at times. Ask yourself: What is this feeling revealing about my desires or insecurities? Which part of me still needs healing? Then, pivot to an inspired perspective.

— Roxie Nafousi

Success, in my view, should be a state we inhabit, not just a distant goal we chase. If success is narrowly defined by tangible metrics like money, power, or fame, the benchmarks constantly shift, and satisfaction remains elusive.

— Roxie Nafousi

Manifesting involves leveraging the mind's power to shape our reality. For me, it's more than just a concept; it's a self-development tool and a way of life. It's about finding the best version of oneself, gaining empowerment, and unlocking the potential for positive change and transformation.

— Roxie Nafousi

When we contemplate our desires, it's essential to recognise that our minds might already be whispering that certain dreams are unattainable. It's so potent that it prevents us from even picturing it. To manifest it in reality, we first need to visualise it in our minds.

— Roxie Nafousi

When I contemplate legacy, I envision a harmonious blend of various elements. My hope is for an upcoming generation that's not only fortified by financial prowess and influence but also recognizes the value beyond materialism. I yearn for them to embrace a 'co-spirituality.'

— Ken Costa

While some criticize them as being overly individualistic, I believe there's a subtle yet undeniable transition from the 'me' mindset to a collective 'we' approach. The profound 'co' concept I foresee is what I term 'co-destiny,' rooted in socially energized capital.

— Ken Costa

I've done the show with a blown-out back, with one leg, coming off laryngitis, coming off or having a 103 degree fever. The bottom line is this… I go in there to do my job – the men and women fighting are actually putting their lives on the line – I'm just announcing! They're taking punches in the face, I'm just holding a microphone! I have nothing to complain about or make excuses for, the show must go on!

— Bruce Buffer

UFC and Pride Fighting Championships Announcer