We bestow on others praise in which we do not believe, on condition that in return they bestow upon us praise in which we do.

It is not easy to imagine how little interested a scientist usually is in the work of any other, with the possible exception of the teacher who backs him or the student who honors him.

Nothing leads the scientist so astray as a premature truth.

Truth is always served by great minds, even if they fight it.

To reflect is to disturb one's thoughts.

I don't judge a regime by the damning criticism of the opposition, but by the ingenuous praise of the partisan.

Whether man is disposed to yield to nature or to oppose her, he cannot do without a correct understanding of her language