How can a rational being be ennobled by any thing that is not obtained by its own exertions?

The conduct and manners of women, in fact, evidently prove that their minds are not in a healthy state; for, like the flowers which are planted in too rich a soil, strenght state; usefulness are sacrificed to beauty; and the flaunting leaves, after having pleased a fastidious eye, fade, disregarded on the stalk, long before the season when they ought to have arrived at maturity.

No man chooses evil because it's evil. He only mistakes it for happiness, the good he seeks.

I do earnestly wish to see the distinction of sex confounded in society, unless where love animates the behaviour.

I think I love most people best when they are in adversity; for pity is one of my prevailing passions.

It would be an endless task to trace the variety of meannesses, cares, and sorrows into which women are plunged by the prevailing opinion that they were created rather to feel than reason, and that all the power they obtain must be obtained by their charms and weaknesses.

Fondness is a poor substitute for friendship.