Laws, like houses, lean on one another.

Whilst shame keeps its watch, virtue is not wholly extinguished in the heart; nor will moderation be utterly exiled from the minds of tyrants.

The science of constructing a commonwealth, or renovating it, or reforming it, is, like every other experimental science, not to be taught a priori. Nor is it a short experience that can instruct us in that practical science, because the real effects of moral causes are not always immediate.

The writers against religion, whilst they oppose every system, are wisely careful never to set up any of their own.

Is it in destroying and pulling down that skill is displayed? The shallowest understanding, the rudest hand, is more than equal to that task.

You can never plan the future by the past.

The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.