Edward Abbey Quotes

Anarchism is founded on the observation that since few men are wise enough to rule themselves, even fewer are wise enough to rule others. Edward Abbey

Good writing can be defined as having something to say and saying it well. When one has nothing to say, one should remain silent. Silence is always beautiful at such times. Edward Abbey

Belief in the supernatural reflects a failure of the imagination. Edward Abbey

There is a certain satisfaction in living a life in complete and total failure. Edward Abbey

If my decomposing carcass helps nourish the roots of a juniper tree or the wings of a vulture – that is immortality enough for me. And as much as anyone deserves. Edward Abbey

A patriot must always be ready to defend his country against his government. Edward Abbey

Growth for the sake of growth is the ideology of the cancer cell. Edward Abbey

When the philosopher’s argument becomes tedious, complicated, and opaque, it is usually a sign that he is attempting to prove as true to the intellect what is plainly false to common sense. Edward Abbey

One man alone can be pretty dumb sometimes, but for real bona fide stupidity, there ain’t nothin’ can beat teamwork. Edward Abbey

Our culture runs on coffee and gasoline, the first often tasting like the second. Edward Abbey

The missionaries go forth to Christianize the savages – as if the savages weren’t dangerous enough already. Edward Abbey

There is science, logic, reason; there is thought verified by experience. And then there is California. Edward Abbey

Grand opera is a form of musical entertainment for people who hate music. Edward Abbey

In the modern techno-industrial culture, it is possible to proceed from infancy into senility without ever knowing manhood. Edward Abbey

The love of wilderness is more than a hunger for what is always beyond reach; it is also an expression of loyalty to the earth…the only home we shall ever know, the only paradise we ever need – if only we had the eyes to see. Edward Abbey

I come more and more to the conclusion that wilderness, in America or anywhere else, is the only thing left that is worth saving. Edward Abbey

The idea of wilderness needs no defense. It only needs more defenders. Edward Abbey

Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit. Edward Abbey