Only passions, and great passions, can raise the soul to great things. Without them there is no sublimity, either in morals or in creativity. Art returns to infancy, and virtue becomes small-minded.
Denis DiderotThe arbitrary rule of a just and enlightened prince is always bad. His virtues are the most dangerous and the surest form of seduction: they lull a people imperceptibly into the habit of loving, respecting, and serving his successor, whoever that successor may be, no matter how wicked or stupid.
Denis DiderotIt has been said that love robs those who have it of their wit, and gives it to those who have none.
Denis DiderotWhat has not been examined impartially has not been well examined. Skepticism is therefore the first step towards truth.
Denis Diderot