If virtue cannot shine bright, but by the conflict of contrary appetites, shall we then say that she cannot subsist without the assistance of vice, and that it is from her that she derives her reputation and honor?

It is a stupid presumption to go about despising and condemning as false anything that seems to us improbable; this is a common fault in those who think they have more intelligence than the crowd.

To smell, though well, is to stink.

We should be similarly wary of accepting common opinions; we should judge them by the ways of reason not by popular vote.

I determine nothing; I do not comprehend things; I suspend judgment; I examine.

Each man calls barbarism whatever is not his own practice; for indeed it seems we have no other test of truth and reason than the example and pattern of the opinions and customs of the country we live in

My reason is not framed to bend or stoop: my knees are.