Oliver Wendell Holmes: Principles

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. Money Quote saying that even as careless as some are of their money, most are not as careful of their principles. Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. said:
 

 

“A man is usually more careful of his money than of his principles” — Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

In this quote, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr seems to be commenting on how people tend to be more diligent about financial matters than ethical ones. By stating that a man is “usually more careful of his money than of his principles”, Holmes implies that people generally give greater attention to protecting their wealth than upholding their morals or values.

The quote conveys Holmes’ perspective that money management receives more focus than consistently living according to one’s principles. Overall, he appears to be arguing that people tend to be more scrupulous about monetary issues than applying their professed ideals and virtues with the same level of discipline, perhaps due to money’s more tangible impacts compared to the less immediately observable effects of compromised principles.

Birthday March 8, 1841 Died March 6, 1935

Oliver Wendell Holmes: Taxes = Civilization

Oliver Wendell Holmes Money Quote saying paying for society via all those things taxes fund, such as infrastructure, police & fire protection. Oliver Wendell Holmes said:
 

 

“I like to pay taxes. It is purchasing civilization” — Oliver Wendell Holmes

This quote from Oliver Wendell Holmes expresses a positive view of paying taxes. He says that he likes to pay taxes because it represents purchasing civilization. By this, Holmes seems to mean that the funds collected through taxes support important functions of a civilized society like infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, and other government services that improve quality of life for citizens.

His view suggests that while taxes impose a financial cost, the return on that investment is a stable and prosperous society. So in essence, Holmes is acknowledging taxes as a necessary contribution if one wants to enjoy the benefits of living in an advanced civilization supported by collective resources and governance. He appears to see taxes not just as an obligation but also an exchange that yields long-term societal value.

Birthday March 8, 1841 Died March 6, 1935

Oliver Wendell Holmes on Trust Protection

Oliver Wendell Holmes Money Quotation saying trusts are essential protection of funds from marriage and foolishness. Oliver Wendell Holmes said:
 

 

“Put not your trust in money, but put your money in trust” — Oliver Wendell Holmes

In this quote, American jurist and author Oliver Wendell Holmes seems to be advising a prudent approach to managing one’s finances and priorities. He cautions against placing “trust” or faith solely in money itself, implying wealth should not be viewed as the sole source of security, fulfillment or social status.

However, Holmes also suggests that while money should not be idolized, it is still wise to invest it securely through vehicles like trusts. The quote conveys Holmes’ perspective that financial resources are best utilized not as an object of worship or reliance, but rather by allocating them responsibly through investment strategies that can continue providing benefits across generations.

Overall, he appears to be advocating a balanced view – neither fixating on money nor neglecting its potential to generate lasting value if stewarded carefully.

Birthday March 8, 1841 Died March 6, 1935