Friendship is a contract in which we render small services in expectation of big ones.

Each particular society begins to feel its strength, whence arises a state of war between different nations.

The Christian religion is a stranger to mere despotic power. The mildness so frequently recommended in the Gospel is incompatible with the despotic rage.

As virtue is necessary in a republic, and honor in a monarchy, fear is what is required in a despotism. As for virtue, it is not at all necessary, and honor would be dangerous there.

It is unreasonable ... to oblige a man not to attempt the defense of his own life.

The life of man is but a succession of vain hopes and groundless fears.

Do you think that God will punish them for not practicing a religion which he did not reveal to them?