I have never been convinced throughout my life that one needs to be imitating others. I even tell my daughters not to look at me as a model. Everyone's condition is different, and the way that each person lives his or her life is different. What is important is that one utilizes one's intellect and not to be 100 percent sure about one's convictions. One should always leave room for doubt.

Because of our youthful population, we suffer from unemployment in Iran. We need more universities and more job opportunities for the young.

No American soldier should be allowed to set foot on Iranian soil, regardless of the criticism we have of the Iranian government.

If you can't eliminate injustice, at least tell everyone about it.

I maintain that nothing useful and lasting can emerge from violence.

Fear is a human instinct, just like hunger. Whether you like it or not, you become hungry. Similarly with fear. But I have learned to train myself to live with the fear.

democracy ... is not something that occurs overnight. It is not a gift delivered on a golden tray. Democracy is a long process of fighting, challenging accepted ideas, and perpetually striving for freedom. Like a seed that has to be watered every day to become a flower, democracy needs constant attention and care.