What the expression is intended to mean, I think, is that there is a better and a worse element in the character of each individual, and that when the naturally better element controls the worse then the man is said to be "master of himself", as a term of praise. But when - as a result of bad upbringing or bad company one s better element is overpowered by the numerical superiority of one s worse impulses, then one is criticized for not being master of oneself and for lack of self control.

Ideas are the source of all things

Maximize the power of the beliefs that strengthen you and neutralize those that weaken you.

To a good man nothing that happens is evil.

This City is what it is because our citizens are what they are.

A dog has the soul of a philosopher.

There are few people so stubborn in their atheism who, when danger is pressing in, will not acknowledge the divine power.