Study with desire is real activity; without desire it is but the semblance and mockery of activity.

Of Belief Human mathematics, so to speak, like the length of life, are subject to the doctrine of chances.

Whenever government assumes to deliver us from the trouble of thinking for ourselves, the only consequences it produces are those of torpor and imbecility.

In cases where every thing is understood, and measured, and reduced to rule, love is out of the question.

Duty is that mode of action on the part of the individual which constitutes the best possible application of his capacity to the general benefit.

Every man has a certain sphere of discretion which he has a right to expect shall not be infringed by his neighbours. This right flows from the very nature of man.

The execution of any thing considerable implies in the first place previous persevering meditation.