There are, then, these three means of effecting persuasion. The man who is to be in command of them must, it is clear, be able (1) to reason logically, (2) to understand human character and goodness in their various forms, and (3) to understand the emotions--that is, to name them and describe them, to know their causes and the way in which they are excited.

That which is in locomotion must arrive at the half-way stage before it arrives at the goal.

Obstinate people can be divided into the opinionated, the ignorant, and the boorish.

The most perfect political community must be amongst those who are in the middle rank, and those states are best instituted wherein these are a larger and more respectable part, if possible, than both the other; or, if that cannot be, at least than either of them separate.

The excellence of a thing is related to its proper function.

No great mind has ever existed without a touch of madness.

He who thus considers things in their first growth and origin ... will obtain the clearest view of them.