A man with his heart in his profession imagines and finds resources where the worthless and lazy despair.

Theologians are all alike, of whatever religion or country they may be; their aim is always to wield despotic authority over men's consciences; they therefore persecute all of us who have the temerity to tell the truth.

A man, who can, in cold blood, hunt and torture a poor, innocent animal, cannot feel much compassion for the distress of his own species.

All religions must be tolerated ... every man must go to heaven in his own way. [Die Religionen müssen alle toleriert werden ... denn hier muss ein jeder nach seiner Fasson selig werden.]

It is pardonable to be defeated, but never to be surprised.

An educated people can be easily governed.

If I wished to punish a province, I would have it governed by philosophers.