Men are especially intolerant of serving and being ruled by, their equals.

It is usually the case with most men that their nature is so constituted that they pity those who fare badly and envy those who fare well.

Superstition, then, is engendered, preserved, and fostered by fear.

Human infirmity in moderating and checking the emotions I name bondage : for, when a man is a prey to his emotions, he is not his own master, but lies at the mercy of fortune : so much so, that he is often compelled, while seeing that which is better for him, to follow that which is worse.

We strive to further the occurrence of whatever we imagine will lead to Joy, and to avert or destroy what we imagine is contrary to it, or will lead to Sadness.

A free man, who lives among ignorant people, tries as much as he can to refuse their benefits. .. He who lives under the guidance of reason endeavours as much as possible to repay his fellow's hatred, rage, contempt, etc. with love and nobleness.

He who seeks equality between unequals seeks an absurdity.