We are so presumptuous that we should like to be known all over the world, even by people who will only come when we are no more. Such is our vanity that the good opinion of half a dozen of the people around us gives us pleasure and satisfaction.

It is man's natural sickness to believe that he possesses the Truth.

The least movement is of importance to all nature. The entire ocean is affected by a pebble.

If a soldier or labourer complain of the hardship of his lot, set him to do nothing.

Our true dignity consists — in thought. Thence we must derive our elevation, not from space or duration. Let us endeavor then to think well; this is the principle of morals.

Nothing is thoroughly approved but mediocrity. The majority has established this, and it fixes its fangs on whatever gets beyond it either way.

The supreme function of reason is to show man that some things are beyond reason.