I doubt if a single individual could be found from the whole of mankind free from some form of insanity. The only difference is one of degree. A man who sees a gourd and takes it for his wife is called insane because this happens to very few people.

Given a choice between a folly and a sacrament, one should always choose the folly—because we know a sacrament will not bring us closer to god and there’s always the chance that a folly will.

By identifying the new learning with heresy, you make orthodoxy synonymous with ignorance.

It seems to me to be the best proof of an evangelical disposition, that persons are not angry when reproached, and have a Christian charity for those that ill deserve it.

What is popularly called fame is nothing but an empty name and a legacy from paganism.

The more ignorant, reckless and thoughtless a doctor is, the higher his reputation soars even amongst powerful princes.

[Only by] the good influence of our conduct may we bring salvation in human affairs; or like a fatal comet we may bring destruction in our train.