Not until we dare to regard ourselves as a nation, not until we respect ourselves, can we gain the esteem of others, or rather only then will it come of its own accord

The fear of death is the most unjustified of all fears, for there's no risk of accident for someone who's dead.

Isn't it strange that I who have written only unpopular books should be such a popular fellow?

What good is a reputation not put to good use.

Thinking is hard work; that's why so few do it.

Intuitive powers played a central role in my scientific work, not wild speculation, yet a valued resource when no other approach was available.

I am an adherent of the ideal of democracy, although I well know the weaknesses of the democratic form of government. Social equality and economic protection of the individual appeared to me always as the important communal aims of the state. Although I am a typical loner in daily life, my consciousness of belonging to the invisible community of those who strive for truth, beauty, and justice has preserved me from feeling isolated.