Where it is a general rule that it is wrong to gratify lovers, this can be attributed to the defects of those who make that rule: the government's lust for rule and the subjects' cowardice.

Mathematics is like draughts in being suitable for the young, not too difficult, amusing, and without peril to the state.

Our need will be the real creator.

If there is no contradictory impression, there is nothing to awaken reflection

Those wretches who never have experienced the sweets of wisdom and virtue, but spend all their time in revels and debauches, sink downward day after day, and make their whole life one continued series of errors.

Courage is knowing what to fear.

No man's nature is able to know what is best for the social state of man; or, knowing, always able to do what is best.