The choice of souls was in most cases based on their own experience of a previous life... Knowledge easily acquired is that which the enduing self had in an earlier life, so that it flows back easily.

The proud man is forsaken of God.

The productions of all arts are kinds of poetry and their craftsmen are all poets.

To the rulers of the state then, if to any, it belongs of right to use falsehood, to deceive either enemies or their own citizens, for the good of the state: and no one else may meddle with this privilege.

Our greatest blessings come to us by way of madness, provided the madness is given us by divine gift.

The rulers of the state are the only persons who ought to have the privilege of lying, either at home or abroad; they may be allowed to lie for the good of the state.

The three wishes of every man: to be healthy, to be rich by honest means, and to be beautiful.