"We can only reason from what is;..." - Quote by Thomas Paine
We can only reason from what is; we can reason on actualities, but not on possibilities.
More by Thomas Paine
“Call to mind the sentiments which nature has engraved on the heart of every citizen, and which take a new force when they are solemnly recognised by all:-For a nation to love liberty, it is sufficient that she knows it; and to be free, it is sufficient that she wills it.”
“And when we view a flag, which to the eye is beautiful, and to contemplate its rise and origin inspires a sensation of sublime delight, our national honor must unite with our interests to prevent injury to the one, or insult to the other.”
“... in free countries the law ought to be King; and there ought to be no other.”
More on Reason
“Though love repine, and reason chafe, There came a voice without reply,- "'Tis man's perdition to be safe, When for the truth he ought to die."”
“Knowledge is the antidote to fear,-Knowledge, Use and Reason, with its higher aids.”
“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts: therefore, guard accordingly, and take care that you entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue and reasonable nature.”