The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others. His own good, either physical or moral, is not sufficient warrant.

The despotism of custom is on the wane. We are not content to know that things are; we ask whether they ought to be.

Whatever crushes individuality is despotism.

Any participation, even in the smallest public function, is useful.

The individual is not accountable to society for his actions in so far as these concern the interests of no person but himself.

I have observed that not the man who hopes when others despair, but the man who despairs when others hope, is admired by a large class of persons as a sage.

The love of power and the love of liberty are in eternal antagonism.