It is dangerous, at any time, to multiply sources of weakness.

The most certain test by which we judge whether a country is really free is the amount of security enjoyed by minorities.

Though oppression may give rise to violent and repeated outbreaks, like the convulsions of a man in pain, it cannot mature a settled purpose and plan of regeneration, unless a new notion of happiness is joined to the sense of present evil.

False principles, which correspond with the bad as well as with the just aspirations of mankind, are a normal and necessary element in the social life of nations.

Every error pronounces judgment on itself when it attempts to apply its rules to the standard of truth.

The possession of unlimited power corrodes the conscience, hardens the heart, and confounds the understanding.

Many men can no more be kept straight by spiritual motives than we can live without policemen.