In revolutions the occasions may be trifling but great interest are at stake.

When a draco has eaten much fruit, it seeks the juice of the bitter lettuce; it has been seen to do this.

In inventing a model we may assume what we wish, but should avoid impossibilities.

Good moral character is not something that we can achieve on our own. We need a culture that supports the conditions under which self-love and friendship flourish.

A democracy when put to the strain grows weak, and is supplanted by Oligarchy.

The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.

Those who have the command of the arms in a country are masters of the state, and have it in their power to make what revolutions they please. [Thus,] there is no end to observations on the difference between the measures likely to be pursued by a minister backed by a standing army, and those of a court awed by the fear of an armed people.