I picture the vast realm of the sciences as an immense landscape scattered with patches of dark and light. The goal towards which we must work is either to extend the boundaries of the patches of light, or to increase their number. One of these tasks falls to the creative genius; the other requires a sort of sagacity combined with perfectionism.

I like better for one to say some foolish thing upon important matters than to be silent. That becomes the subject of discussion and dispute, and the truth is discovered.

First move me, astonish me, break my heart, let me tremble, weep, stare, be enraged-only then regale my eyes.

In general, children, like men, and men, like children, prefer entertainment to education.

There is less harm to be suffered in being mad among madmen than in being sane all by oneself.

Does anyone really know where they're going to?

My ideas are my whores.