We must have constantly present in our minds the difference between independence and liberty. Liberty is a right of doing whatever the laws permit, and if a citizen could do what they forbid he would no longer be possessed of liberty.

The state is the association of men, and not men themselves; the citizen may perish, and the man remain.

Nature is just to all mankind, and repays them for their industry. She renders them industrious by annexing rewards in proportion to their labor.

As men are affected in all ages by the same passions, the occasions which bring about great changes are different, but the causes are always the same.

In the state of nature... all men are born equal, but they cannot continue in this equality. Society makes them lose it, and they recover it only by the protection of the law.

An injustice committed against anyone is a threat to everyone.

An injustice to one is a threat made to all