No idea is conceived in our mind independent of our five senses [i.e., no idea is divinely inspired].

Since our inner experiences consist of reproductions, and combinations of sensory impressions, the concept of a soul without a body seem to me to be empty and devoid of meaning.

Even the scholars in various lands have been acting as if their brains had been amputated.

A life directed chiefly toward the fulfillment of personal desires will sooner or later always lead to bitter disappointment.

Mysticism is in fact the only criticism people cannot level against my theory.

We experience ourselves our thoughts and feelings as something separate from the rest. A kind of optical delusion of consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest to us.

It is not so important where one settles down. The best thing is to follow your instincts without too much reflection.