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.

What a chimera then is man. What a novelty! What a monster... what a contradiction, what a prodigy

If we let ourselves believe that man began with divine grace, that he forfeited this by sin, and that he can be redeemed only by divine grace through the crucified Christ, then we shall find peace of mind never granted to philosophers. He who cannot believe is cursed, for he reveals by his unbelief that God has not chosen to give him grace.

Christian piety annihilates the egoism of the heart; worldly politeness veils and represses it.

It is your own assent to yourself, and the constant voice of your own reason, and not of others, that should make you believe.

We must keep our thought secret, and judge everything by it, while talking like the people.

The charm of fame is so great that we like every object to which it is attached, even death.