Europe is a state with several provinces

There is no crueler tyranny than that which is perpetuated under the shield of law and in the name of justice.

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.

I have ever held it as a maxim never to do that through another which it was impossible for me to execute myself

Injustice towards others is a threat to everybody

Political liberty in a citizen is that tranquillity of spirit which comes from the opinion each one has of his security, and in order for him to have this liberty the government must be such that one citizen cannot fear another citizen.

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