Another error is an impatience of doubt and haste to assertion without due and mature suspension of judgment. For the two ways of contemplation are not unlike the two ways of action commonly spoken of by the ancients; the one plain and smooth in the beginning, and in the end impassable; the other rough and troublesome in the entrance, but after a while fair and even. So it is in contemplation; if a man will begin with certainties, he shall end in doubts; but if he will be content to begin with doubts, he shall end in certainties.

It is good discretion not make too much of any man at the first; because one cannot hold out that proportion.

Ipsa scientia potestas est. (Knowledge itself is power.)

Half of science is putting forth the right questions.

No pleasure is comparable to the standing upon the vantage-ground of truth.

The essential form of knowledge... is nothing but a representation of truth: for the truth of being and the truth of knowing are one, differing no more than the direct beam and the beam reflected.

Be so true to thyself, as thou be not false to others.