Whetstones are not themselves able to cut, but make iron sharp and capable of cutting.

And let no one suppose that I claim that just living can be taught for, in a word, I hold that there does not exist an art of the kind which can implant sobriety and justice into depraved natures. Nevertheless, I do think that the study of political discourse can help more than any other thing to stimulate and form such qualities of character

Be gracious to all men, but choose the best to be your friends.

Guard yourself against accusations, even if they are false; for the multitude are ignorant of the truth and look only to reputation.

Spend your leisure time in cultivating an ear attentive to discourse, for in this way you will find that you learn with ease what others have found out with difficulty.

Conduct yourself towards your parents as you would have your children conduct themselves towards you.

It is not fitting that the evil produced by men should be imputed to things; let those bear the blame who make an ill use of things in themselves good.