For while we are enclosed in these confinements of the body, we perform as a kind of duty the heavy task of necessity; for the soul from heaven has been cast down from its dwelling on high and sunk, as it were, into the earth, a place just the opposite to godlike nature and eternity. But I believe that the immortal gods have sown souls in human bodies so there might exist beings to guard the world and after contemplating the order of heaven, might imitate it by their moderation and steadfastness in life.

Men resemble the gods in nothing so much as in doing good to their fellow creatures.

To remain ignorant of history is to remain forever a child

The best interpreter of the law is custom.

This is a proof of a well-trained mind, to rejoice in what is good and to grieve at the opposite.

Reason should direct, and appetite obey.

Virtue is its own reward.