If people should ever start to do only what is necessary millions would die of hunger.

If people should ever start to do only what is necessary millions would die of hunger.

We do what we must, and call it by the best names.

We do what we must, and call it by the best names.

Necessity is the mother of invention, it is true -- but it's father is creativity, and knowledge is the midwife.

Necessity is the mother of invention, it is true -- but it's father is creativity, and knowledge is the midwife.

By necessity, by proclivity, and by delight, we all quote. In fact it is as difficult to appropriate the thoughts read more

By necessity, by proclivity, and by delight, we all quote. In fact it is as difficult to appropriate the thoughts of others as it is to invent.

Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants; it is the creed read more

Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants; it is the creed of slaves.

Omission to do what is necessary
Seals a commission to a blank of danger;
And danger, like read more

Omission to do what is necessary
Seals a commission to a blank of danger;
And danger, like an ague, subtly taints
Even then when we sit idly in the sun.

Stern is the visage of necessity.
[Ger., Ernst ist der Anblick der Nothwendigkeit.]

Stern is the visage of necessity.
[Ger., Ernst ist der Anblick der Nothwendigkeit.]

My steps have pressed the flowers,
That to the Muses' bowers
The eternal dews of Helicon have read more

My steps have pressed the flowers,
That to the Muses' bowers
The eternal dews of Helicon have given:
And trod the mountain height,
Where Science, young and bright,
Scans with poetic gaze the midnight-heaven.
Yet have I found no power to vie
With thine, severe necessity!

Necessity knows no law except to conquer.

Necessity knows no law except to conquer.