We must say that there are as many squares as there are numbers.

It is necessary for the Bible, in order to be accommodated to the understanding of every man, to speak many things which appear to differ from the absolute truth so far as the bare meaning of the words is concerned.

In the long run my observations have convinced me that some men, reasoning preposterously, first establish some conclusion in their minds which, either because of its being their own or because of their having received it from some person who has their entire confidence, impresses them so deeply that one finds it impossible ever to get it out of their heads.

It is surely harmful to souls to make it a heresy to believe what is proved.

Philosophy itself cannot but benefit from our disputes, for if our conceptions prove true, new achievements will be made; if false, their refutation will further confirm the original doctrines.

In the sciences, the authority of thousands of opinions is not worth as much as one tiny spark of reason in an individual man.

Holy Writ was intended to teach men how to go to Heaven not how the heavens go.