The proof that the state is a creation of nature and prior to the individual is that the individual, when isolated, is not self-sufficing.

It is just that we should be grateful, not only to those with whose views we may agree, but also to those who have expressed more superficial views; for these also contributed something, by developing before us the powers of thought.

No tyrant need fear till men begin to feel confident in each other.

Human beings are curious by nature.

Mothers are fonder than fathers of their children because they are more certain they are their own.

Therefore, the good of man must be the end of the science of politics.

Now what is just and right is to be interpreted in the sense of 'what is equal'; and that which is right in the sense of being equal is to be considered with reference to the advantage of the state, and the common good of the citizens. And a citizen is one who shares in governing and being governed. He differs under different forms of government, but in the best state he is one who is able and willing to be governed and to govern with a view to the life of virtue.