The incomparable stupidity of life teaches us to love our parents; divine philosophy teaches us to forgive them.

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

A good writer does not write as people write, but as he writes.

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

Political liberty is to be found only in moderate governments.

Talent is a gift which God has given us secretly, and which we reveal without perceiving it.

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.