For after the subject is removed or the eye shut, we still retain an image of the things seen, though more obscure than when we see it...Imagination, therefore, is nothing more than decaying sense.

Geometry is the only science that it hath pleased God hitherto to bestow on mankind.

Wisdom, properly so called, is nothing else but this: the perfect knowledge of the truth in all matters whatsoever.

That a man be willing, when others are so too, as far forth as for peace and defense of himself he shall think it necessary, to lay down this right to all things; and be contented with so much liberty against other men, as he would allow other men against himself.

No arts, no letters - no society.

There is more in Mersenne than in all the universities together.

It is manifest therefore that they who have sovereign power, are immediate rulers of the church under Christ, and all others but subordinate to them. If that were not, but kings should command one thing upon pain of death, and priests another upon pain of damnation, it would be impossible that peace and religion should stand together.