All the ancient histories, as one of our wits say, are just fables that have been agreed upon

Despite the enormous quantity of books, how few people read! And if one reads profitably, one would realize how much stupid stuff the vulgar herd is content to swallow every day.

When truth is evident, it is impossible for parties and factions to rise. There never has been a dispute as to whether there is daylight at noon.

Virtue between men is a commerce of good actions: he who has no part in this commerce must not be reckoned.

A witty saying proves nothing, but saying something pointless gets people's attention.

He who thinks himself wise, O heavens! is a great fool.

If you wish to obtain a great name or to found an establishment, be completely mad; but be sure that your madness corresponds with the turn and temper of your age.