When we cannot use the compass of mathematics or the torch of experience...it is certain we cannot take a single step forward.

Anyone who seeks to destroy the passions instead of controlling them is trying to play the angel.

Let each of us boldly and honestly say: How little it is that I really know!

The way to be a bore is to say everything.

A circumstance which has always appeared wonderful to me, is that such sublime discoveries should have been made by the sole assistance of a quadrant and a little arithmetic.

Woe to the makers of literal translations, who by rendering every word weaken the meaning! It is indeed by so doing that we can say the letter kills and the spirit gives life.

Happiness is a good that nature sells us.