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.

The false notion of miracles comes of our vanity, which makes us believe we are important enough for the Supreme Being to upset nature on our behalf.

The alms given to a naked man in the street do not fulfil the obligations of the state, which owes to every citizen a certain subsistence, a proper nourishment, convenient clothing, and a kind of life not incompatible with health.

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.

There are three species of government: republican, monarchical, and despotic.

Never create by law what can be accomplished by morality.

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