If it is true that vice can never be done away with, the science of government consists of making it contribute to the public good.

Activity makes more men's fortunes than cautiousness.

The usual pretext of those who make others unhappy is that they do it for their own good.

The falsest of all philosophies is that which, under the pretext of delivering men from the embarrassment of their passions, counsels idleness and the abandonment and neglect of themselves.

It is not in everyone's power to secure wealth, office, or honors; but everyone may be good, generous, and wise.

All erroneous ideas would perish of their own accord if given clear expression.

Great men in teaching weak men to reflect have set them on the road to error.