Ignorance is of a peculiar nature; once dispelled, it is impossible to reestablish it. It is not originally a thing of itself, but is only the absence of knowledge; and though man may be kept ignorant, he cannot be made ignorant.

If the present generation, or any other, are disposed to be slaves, it does not lessen the right of the succeeding generation to be free: wrongs cannot have a legal descent.

I would not dare so dishonor my Creator's name by attaching it to this filthy book.

It is the duty of every man, as far as his ability extends, to detect and expose delusion and error.

The instant formal government is abolished, society begins to act. A general association takes place, and common interest produces common security.

Every proprietor owes to the community a ground-rent for the land which he holds.

Civil rights are those which appertain to man in right of his being a member of society. Every civil right has for its foundation some natural right pre-existing in the individual, but to the enjoyment of which his individual power is not, in all cases, sufficiently competent. Of this kind are all those which relate to security and protection.