Sneezing absorbs all the functions of the soul just as much as the [sexual] act, but we do not draw from it the same conclusions against the greatness of man, because it is involuntary; although we bring it about, we do so involuntarily. It is not for the sake of the thing in itself but for another end, and is therefore not a sign of man's weakness, or his subjection to this act.

Human beings must be known to be loved; but Divine beings must be loved to be known.

Custom determines what is agreeable.

I feel engulfed in the infinite immensity of spaces whereof I know nothing, and which know nothing of me, I am terrified The eternal silence of these infinite spaces alarms me.

Discourses on humility are a source of pride in the vain and of humility in the humble.

Small minds are concerned with the extraordinary, great minds with the ordinary.

Words differently arranged have a different meaning, and meanings differently arranged have different effects.