The general will rules in society as the private will governs each separate individual.

Omelets are not made without breaking eggs.

Any law which violates the inalienable rights of man is essentially unjust and tyrannical; it is not a law at all.

It is with regret that I pronounce the fatal truth: Louis ought to perish rather than a hundred thousand virtuous citizens; Louis must die that the country may live

Any institution which does not suppose the people good, and the magistrate corruptible, is evil.

It has been said that terror is the principle of despotic government. Does your government therefore resemble despotism? Yes, as the sword that gleams in the hands of the heroes of liberty resembles that with which the henchmen of tyranny are armed ... The government of the revolution is liberty's despotism against tyranny.

Establish liberty on a rock of brass.