There is more ado to interpret interpretations than to interpret things, and more books upon books than upon any other subject; we do nothing but comment upon one another. Every place swarms with commentaries; of authors there is great scarcity.

Who is it that does not voluntarily exchange his health, his repose, and his very life for reputation and glory? The most useless, frivolous, and false coin that passes current among us.

There is as much difference between us and ourselves as there is between us and others.

The most universal quality is diversity.

Saying is one thing and doing is another

Thus we should beware of clinging to vulgar opinions, and judge things by reason's way, not by popular say.

There is no conversation more boring than the one where everybody agrees.