Science knows no country because knowledge belongs to humanity and is the torch which illuminates the world. Science is the highest personification of the nation because that nation will remain the first which carries the furthest the works of thought and intelligence.

The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him.

If you would take you must first give this is the beginning of intelligence.

We have now sunk to a depth at which restatement of the obvious is the first duty of intelligent men.

Be what you are. This is the first step toward becoming better than you are.

The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function.

Since we launched the original 'Pop Idol' in England I've remained close with Simon Fuller. Working as executive producer on 'American idol' for its first seven years not only was an inspirational journey into the heart of American pop culture it opened my eyes to the untapped potential of the incredibly dynamic young people in this world.

Imagination! Imagination! I put it first years ago when I was asked what qualities I thought necessary for success on the stage.

You expect far too much of a first sentence. Think of it as analogous to a good country breakfast: what we want is something simple but nourishing to the imagination.

I think reading is important for a variety of things. I mean first of all it's a way to get information and find out what's going on in the world. But also it helps your imagination.