For this is the tragedy of man circumstances change, but he does not.

Make no small plans for they have no power to stir the soul.

Whoever takes it upon himself to establish a commonwealth and prescribe laws must presuppose all men naturally bad, and that they will yield to their innate evil passions as often as they can do so with safety.

....nothing is so unhealthy or unstable as the reputation for power that is not based on one's own power.

A blast in the human breast is nothing to boast of.

Cruelties should be committed all at once.

To ensure victory the troops must have confidence in themselves as well as in their commanders.