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.

When an idea is just rising on the horizon, the soul's temperature with respect to it is usually very cold. Only gradually does the idea develop its warmth, and it is hottest (which is to say, exerting its greatest influence) when belief in the idea is already once again in decline.

In compassionate men, severity is a virtue.

As a result, nature is something entirely different from what comes to mind when we invoke its name.

I am the leading strings of the ego and the prompter of its concepts.

Whoever has looked deeply into the world might well guess what wisdom lies in the superficiality of men.

Liberal institutions straightway cease being liberal the moment they are soundly established: Once this is attained, no more grievous and more thorough enemies of freedom exist than liberal institutions.