I keep to old books, for they teach me something; from the new I learn very little

In general, the art of government consists of taking as much money as possible from one class of citizens to give to another.

He was a great patriot, a humanitarian, a loyal friend; provided, of course, he really is dead.

Which is more dangerous: fanaticism or atheism? Fanaticism is certainly a thousand times more deadly; for atheism inspires no bloody passion whereas fanaticism does; atheism is opposed to crime and fanaticism causes crimes to be committed.

All the citizens of a state cannot be equally powerful, but they may be equally free

The tyranny of the many would be when one body takes over the rights of others, and then exercises its power to change the laws in its favor.

A good imitation is the most perfect originality