Heresy is a word which, when it is used without passion, signifies a private opinion. So the different sects of the old philosophers, Academians, Peripatetics, Epicureans, Stoics, &c., were called heresies.

Man is distinguished not only by his reason, but also by this singular passion, from all other animals.

In sum, all actions and habits are to be esteemed good or evil by their causes and usefulness in reference to the commonwealth, and not by their mediocrity, nor by their being commended. For several men praise several customs, and, contrarily, what one calls vice, another calls virtue, as their present affections lead them.

He that is taken and put into prison or chains is not conquered, though overcome; for he is still an enemy.

Where there is no common power, there is no law

He that has most experience [is] so much more prudent than he that is new, as not to be equalled by any advantage of natural and extemporary wit- though many young men think the contrary.

I put for the general inclination of all mankind, a perpetual and restless desire of power after power, that ceaseth only in death.