In the end we retain from our studies only that which we practically apply.

We love a girl for very different qualities than understanding. We love her for her beauty, her youth, her mirth, her confidingness, her character, with its faults, caprices and God knows what other inexpressible charms; but we do not love her understanding.

What is the destiny of man, but to fill up the measure of his sufferings, and to drink his allotted cup of bitterness?

Nothing is more odious than the majority, for it consists of a few powerful leaders, a certain number of accommodating scoundrels and submissive weaklings, and a mass of men who trot after them without thinking, or knowing their own minds.

Toleration ought in reality to be merely a transitory mood. It must lead to recognition. To tolerate is to affront.

In all times it is only individuals that have advanced science, not the age.

Let him who believes in immortality enjoy his happiness in silence; he has no reason to give himself airs about it.