Other related topics at: Religion and Morality Virtue and Vice 37. Morality; Scruples Boswell: I described to him an impudent fellow from Scotland, who affected to be a savage, and railed at all established systems. Johnson: "There is nothing surprizing in this, Sir. He wants to make himself conspicuous. He would tumble in a hogstye, as long as you looked at him and called to him to come out. But let him alone, never mind him, and he'll soon give it over." Boswell: I added that the same person maintained that there was no distinction between virtue and vice. Johnson: "Why, Sir, if the fellow does not think as he speaks, he is lying; and I see not what honour he can propose to himself from having the character of a liar. But if he does really think that there is no distinction between virtue and vice, why, Sir, when he leaves our houses let us count our spoons." Boswell: Life Link 155. Scruples "Scruples would (as he observed) certainly make men miserable, and seldom make them good. Let us ever (he said) studiously fly from those instructors against whom our Savior denounces heavy judgments, for having bound up burdens grievous to be borne, and laid them on the shoulders of mortal men." Piozzi: Anecdotes Link 489. Knowledge; Scruples "Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, and knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful." Johnson: Rasselas [the Astronomer] Note: If you haven't read it yet, please read this note of caution regarding quotes from Rasselas. Link