In peace and prosperity states and individuals have better sentiments, because they do not find themselves suddenly confronted with imperious necessities; but war takes away the easy supply of daily wants and so proves a rough master that brings most men's characters to a level with their fortunes

It is frequently a misfortune to have very brilliant men in charge of affairs. They expect too much of ordinary men.

In a democracy, someone who fails to get elected to office can always console himself with the thought that there was something not quite fair about it.

So little trouble do men take in the search after truth; so readily do they accept whatever comes first to hand.

The cause of all these evils was the lust for power arising from greed and ambition; and from these passions proceeded the violence of parties once engaged in contention.

Don't confuse meaning with truth.

If you give way, you will instantly have to meet some greater demand, as having been frightened into obedience in the first instance; while a firm refusal will make them clearly understand that they must treat you more as equals.