Whatever sociology may be, it is the result of constantly asking the question, what is the meaning of this?

Freedom is not merely the opportunity to do as one pleases; neither is it merely the opportunity to choose between set alternatives. Freedom is, first of all, the chance to formulate the available choices, to argue over them -- and then, the opportunity to choose.

As a social and as a personal force, religion has become a dependent variable. It does not originate; it reacts. It does not denounce; it adapts. It does not set forth new models of conduct and sensibility; it imitates. Its rhetoric is without deep appeal; the worship it organizes is without piety. It has become less a revitalization of the spirit in permanent tension with the world than a respectable distraction from the sourness of life.

I try to be objective. I do not claim to be detached.

Each day men sell little pieces if themselves in order to try to buy then back each night and weekend.

History is the shank of the social sciences.

To accept opinions is to gain the good solid feeling of being correct without having to think.