One of the lessons of history is that nothing is often a good thing to do and always a clever thing to say.

In this quote, Will Durant, an American historian and philosopher, reflects on the idea that sometimes the best course of action in life is to do nothing at all. He suggests that, while action is often valued, there are moments in history when the most effective response is inaction. The quote highlights how patience and restraint can be powerful tools, particularly in situations where impulsiveness or rash decisions can lead to negative consequences. Durant implies that history teaches us that inaction, in certain circumstances, can be a wise and strategic choice.

Durant also suggests that while doing nothing can be beneficial, it’s often the words—what we say—that are more difficult to execute with such wisdom. The phrase "always a clever thing to say" refers to how articulating restraint or prudence can appear smart and insightful, even if actually doing nothing is harder. In essence, while it is easy to declare that inaction is the best approach, it can be much harder to embody this philosophy in practice, especially when emotions or pressures push people toward immediate action.

The origin of this quote can be linked to Durant’s historical perspective. Known for his work on the multi-volume “The Story of Civilization”, Durant was keen on examining patterns of human behavior and the lessons that history can teach us. His observation about inaction reflects his broader understanding of human history and its tendency to repeat itself, often driven by unnecessary action or overreaction in times of crisis.

Ultimately, Durant’s quote serves as a reminder that history is not just about actions taken, but also about recognizing when restraint is necessary. In a world where quick decisions are often celebrated, Durant advocates for the wisdom of patience and consideration, showing that sometimes saying nothing and doing nothing can be the most clever and effective choice.