We should be surprised that a matter that generally plays such an important part in the life of man has hitherto been almost entirely disregarded by philosophers, and lies before us as raw and untreated material.

Every original idea is first ridiculed, then vigorously attacked, and finally taken for granted.

Mankind cannot get on without a certain amount of absurdity.

All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.

Motives are causes experienced from within.

Solitude will be welcomed or endured or avoided, according as a man's personal value is large or small.

Rascals are always sociable, more's the pity! and the chief sign that a man has any nobility in his character is the little pleasure he takes in others' company.