There are two equally dangerous extremes-to shut reason out, and to let nothing else in.

Put the world's greatest philosopher on a plank that is wider than need be; if there is a precipe below, although his reason may convince him that he is safe, his imagination will prevail.

How vain painting is-we admire the realistic depiction of objects which in their original state we don't admire at all.

Vanity is so anchored in the heart of man that a soldier, a soldier's servant, a cook, a porter brags and wishes to have his admirers. Even philosophers wish for them. Those who write against vanity want to have the glory of having written well; and those who read it desire the glory of having read it. I who write this have perhaps this desire, and perhaps those who will read it.

Our senses will not admit anything extreme. Too much noise confuses us, too much light dazzles us, too great distance or nearness prevents vision, too great prolixity or brevity weakens an argument, too much pleasure gives pain, too much accordance annoys.

Men often take their imagination for their heart; and they believe they are converted as soon as they think of being converted.

Those who are clever in imagination are far more pleased with themselves than prudent men could reasonably be.