Solemnity is the shield of idiots

The prejudices of superstition are superior to all others, and have the strongest influence on the human mind.

Very good laws may be ill timed.

The laws do not take upon them to punish any other than overt acts.

Useless laws weaken the necessary laws.

Experience constantly proves that every man who has power is impelled to abuse it; he goes on till he is pulled up by some limits. Who would say it! virtue even has need of limits.

Certain kinds of foolishness are such that a greater foolishness would be better.