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John Selden

101quotes

John Selden


#### Full Name and Common Aliases
John Selden was a British jurist, scholar, and parliamentarian who is best known as a leading figure in the development of English law.

Birth and Death Dates


Born on February 16, 1584, in Salopian, Worcestershire, England, John Selden passed away on November 30, 1654, at the age of 70.

Nationality and Profession(s)


John Selden was a proud Englishman, and his life's work reflects his dedication to his country. He held several professions throughout his career, including that of a lawyer, parliamentarian, and scholar. His expertise spanned various fields, with notable contributions in the areas of law, history, and literature.

Early Life and Background


Selden was born into a family of modest means. His early life was marked by an intense curiosity for knowledge and learning. He demonstrated exceptional aptitude from a young age, which eventually led him to study at Oxford University's Hart Hall (now Hertford College). Selden's time at university laid the groundwork for his future accomplishments, as he developed a keen interest in classical languages, literature, and philosophy.

Major Accomplishments


Selden played an instrumental role in shaping English law. He was appointed to Parliament in 1614 and quickly made a name for himself as a skilled parliamentarian. His contributions to Parliament were significant, particularly in the development of the concept of common law, which became a cornerstone of English jurisprudence.

Notable Works or Actions


One of Selden's most notable works is his treatise "Table-Talk," an anthology of witty sayings and quotes from various sources. This work showcases his mastery of language and wit, as well as his ability to synthesize disparate ideas into a cohesive whole. Another notable achievement was his role in shaping the Petition of Right, a landmark document that established key principles for the rule of law.

Impact and Legacy


Selden's impact on English law is undeniable. He helped establish the concept of common law, which has influenced legal systems worldwide. His contributions to Parliament and his work as a scholar have left an indelible mark on the development of Western jurisprudence. As a parliamentarian, Selden championed the cause of justice and equality, often taking unpopular stances in defense of these values.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


John Selden is widely quoted and remembered for his keen intellect, wit, and unwavering commitment to justice. His mastery of language and literature has inspired generations of scholars and writers. As a leading figure in the development of English law, Selden's legacy continues to shape our understanding of the rule of law and the importance of upholding individual rights.

In conclusion, John Selden was a true polymath whose contributions to English law, history, and literature have had far-reaching consequences. His wit, intelligence, and dedication to justice have cemented his place in history as one of the most influential figures of his time.

Quotes by John Selden

John Selden's insights on:

Of all the actions of a man’s life, his marriage does least concern other people, yet of all the actions of our lives, ’tis the most meddled with by other people.
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Of all the actions of a man’s life, his marriage does least concern other people, yet of all the actions of our lives, ’tis the most meddled with by other people.
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Idolatry is in a man’s own thought, not in the opinion of another.
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Idolatry is in a man’s own thought, not in the opinion of another.
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No man is the wiser for his learning.
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No man is the wiser for his learning.
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It’s not the drinking to be blamed, but the excess.
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It’s not the drinking to be blamed, but the excess.
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Never tell your resolution beforehand, or it’s twice as onerous a duty.
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Never tell your resolution beforehand, or it’s twice as onerous a duty.
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We pick out a text here and there to make it serve our turn; whereas, if we take it all together, and considered what went before and what followed after, we should find it meant no such thing.
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We pick out a text here and there to make it serve our turn; whereas, if we take it all together, and considered what went before and what followed after, we should find it meant no such thing.
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The law against witches does not prove there be any; but it punishes the malice of those people that use such means to take away men’s lives.
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The law against witches does not prove there be any; but it punishes the malice of those people that use such means to take away men’s lives.
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Talk what you will of the Jews, – that they are cursed: they thrive wherever they come; they are able to oblige the prince of their country by lending him money; none of them beg; they keep together; and as for their being hated, why, Christians hate one another as much.
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Talk what you will of the Jews, – that they are cursed: they thrive wherever they come; they are able to oblige the prince of their country by lending him money; none of them beg; they keep together; and as for their being hated, why, Christians hate one another as much.
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Pride may be allowed to this or that degree, else a man cannot keep up dignity. In gluttony there must be eating, in drunkenness there must be drinking; ’tis not the eating, and ’tis not the drinking that must be blamed, but the excess. So in pride.
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Pride may be allowed to this or that degree, else a man cannot keep up dignity. In gluttony there must be eating, in drunkenness there must be drinking; ’tis not the eating, and ’tis not the drinking that must be blamed, but the excess. So in pride.
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Ceremony keeps up things: ’tis like a penny glass to a rich spirit, or some excellent water; without it the water were spilt, and the spirit lost.
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Ceremony keeps up things: ’tis like a penny glass to a rich spirit, or some excellent water; without it the water were spilt, and the spirit lost.
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