There is a form of eminence which does not depend on fate; it is an air which sets us apart and seems to prtend great things; it is the value which we unconsciously attach to ourselves; it is the quality which wins us deference of others; more than birth, position, or ability, it gives us ascendance.
Francois de La RochefoucauldModeration is the feebleness and sloth of the soul, whereas ambition is the warmth and activity of it.
Francois de La RochefoucauldWe often persuade ourselves to love people who are more powerful than we are, yet interest alone produces our friendship; we do not give our hearts away for the good we wish to do, but for that we expect to receive.
Francois de La RochefoucauldThose who are themselves incapable of great crimes are ever backward to suspect others.
Francois de La RochefoucauldThe shame that arises from praise which we do not deserve often makes us do things we should otherwise never have attempted.
Francois de La Rochefoucauld