Without my attempts in natural science, I should never have learned to know mankind such as it is. In nothing else can we so closely approach pure contemplation and thought, so closely observe the errors of the senses and of the understanding, the weak and strong points of character.

One can be instructed in society, one is inspired only in solitude.

In art it's not the thinking that does the job, but making.

Superstition is the poetry of life. It is inherent in man's nature; and when we think it is wholly eradicated, it takes refuge in the strangest holes and corners, whence it peeps out all at once, as soon as it can do it with safety.

Dispel not, the happy delusions of children.

Man believes himself always greater than he is, and is esteemed less than he is worth.

It is opposition that makes us productive.