If we do not plant knowledge when young, it will give us no shade when we are old.

Absolute power can only be supported by error, ignorance and prejudice.

I look upon indolence as a sort of suicide.

I am provoked at the contempt which most historians show for humanity in general; one would think by them, that the whole human species consisted but of about a hundred and fifty people, called and dignified (commonly very undeservedly too) by the titles of Emperors, Kings, Popes, Generals, and Ministers.

In seeking wisdom thou art wise; in imagining that thou hast attained it - thou art a fool.

Nothing sharpens the arrow of sarcasm so keenly as the courtesy that polishes it; no reproach is like that we clothe with a smile and present with a bow.

People will no more advance their civility to a bear, than their money to a bankrupt.