A high civilization is a pyramid: it can stand only on a broad base; its primary prerequisite is a strong and soundly consolidated mediocrity.

In art the end does not sanctify the means: but sacred means employed here can sanctify the end.

Christianity is religion for the executioner.

We grow hostile to many an artist or writer, not because we finally come to see he has deceived us, but because he thought no subtler means were required to ensnare us.

God is a too palpably clumsy answer; an answer which shows a lack of delicacy towards us thinkers-fundamentally, even a crude prohibition to us: you shall not think!

The magnitude of a progress is gauged by the greatness of the sacrifice that it requires.

Spiritual strength and passion, when accompanied by bad manners, only provoke loathing.