Books are never out of humour; never envious or jealous, they answer all questions with readiness; ... they teach us how to live and how to die; they dispel melancholy by their mirth, and amuse by their wit; they prepare the soul to suffer everything and desire nothing; they introduce us to ourselves.

Sacrifice is a form of bargaining.

The great revolution of the future will be Nature's revolt against man.

As soon as an idea is accepted it is time to reject it.

Those who seek happiness miss it, and those who discuss it, lack it.

Love is the most subtle form of self-interest.

The poor are the only consistent altruists; they sell all they have and give it to the rich.