For, besides, that many persons find too sensible an interest in perpetually recalling such topics; besides this, I say, the motive of blind despair can never reasonably have place in the sciences; since, however unsuccessful former attempts may have proved, there is still room to hope, that the industry, good fortune, or improved sagacity of succeeding generations may reach discoveries unknown to former ages.

In this sullen apathy neither true wisdom nor true happiness can be found.

No advantages in this world are pure and unmixed.

The Christian religion not only was at first attended with miracles, but even at this day cannot be believed by any reasonable person without one.

All morality depends upon our sentiments; and when any action or quality of the mind pleases us after a certain manner we say it is virtuous; and when the neglect or nonperformance of it displeases us after a like manner, we say that we lie under an obligation to perform it.

Reason is, and ought only to be the slave of the passions.

The most lively thought is still inferior to the dullest sensation.