Reason commands us far more imperiously than a master; for in disobeying the one we are unfortunate, and in disobeying the other we are fools.

This is what I see, and what troubles me. I look on all sides, and everywhere I see nothing but obscurity. Nature offers me nothing that is not a matter of doubt and disquiet.

Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from religious conviction.

We are fools to depend upon the society of our fellow-men. Wretched as we are, powerless as we are, they will not aid us; we shall die alone.

If there were only one religion, God would indeed be manifest.

Justice without force is powerless; force without justice is tyrannical.

It is superstitious to put one's hopes in formalities, but arrogant to refuse to submit to them.