Men become richer not only by increasing their existing wealth but also by decreasing their expenditure.

That which is common to the greatest number has the least care bestowed upon it. Every one thinks chiefly of his own, hardly at all of the common interest; and only when he is himself concerned as an individual. For besides other considerations, everybody is more inclined to neglect the duty which he expects another to fulfill.

The family is the association established by nature for the supply of men's everyday wants.

Anything whose presence or absence makes no discernible difference is no essential part of the whole.

Saying the words that come from knowledge is no sign of having it.

That which is impossible and probable is better than that which is possible and improbable.

.. for desire is like a wild beast, and anger perverts rulers and the very best of men. Hence law is intelligence without appetition.