I have no fault to find with those who teach geometry. That science is the only one which has not produced sects; it is founded on analysis and on synthesis and on the calculus; it does not occupy itself with the probable truth; moreover it has the same method in every country.

Be more than you seem to be.

The greatest and noblest pleasure which we have in this world is to discover new truths, and the next is to shake off old prejudices.

Great things are achieved only when we take great risks.

You will certainly grant me that neither antiquity nor whatever nation has devised a more repulsive and blasphemous absurdity than that of eating your God. This is the most disgusting dogma of Christian religion, the greatest insult to the Highest Being, the climax of madness and insanity.

My people and I have come to an agreement which satisfies us both. They are to do what they please, and I am to do what I please.

To your care and recommendation am I indebted for having replaced a half-blind mathematician with a mathematician with both eyes, which will especially please the anatomical members of my Academy.