The folly of others is ever most ridiculous to those who are themselves most foolish.

Whatever mitigates the woes, or increases the happiness of others, is a just criterion of goodness; and whatever injures society at large, or any individual in it, is a criterion of iniquity.

The first time I read an excellent book, it is to me just as if I had gained a new friend. When I read a book over I have perused before, it resembles the meeting with an old one.

You will always find that those are most apt to boast of national merit, who have little or not merit of their own to depend on . . .

The world is like a vast sea: mankind like a vessel sailing on its tempestuous bosom. ... [T]he sciences serve us for oars.

Unequal combinations are always disadvantageous to the weaker side.

The life of a scholar seldom abounds with adventure.