[Science is] the desire to know causes.

To be forward to praise others implies either great eminence, that can afford to, part with applause; or great quickness of discernment, with confidence in our own judgments; or great sincerity and love of truth, getting the better of our self-love.

Though familiarity may not breed contempt, it takes off the edge of admiration.

In some situations, if you say nothing, you are called dull; if you talk, you are thought impertinent and arrogant. It is hard to know what to do in this case. The question seems to be, whether your vanity or your prudence predominates.

Familiarity confounds all traits of distinction; interest and prejudice take away the power of judging.

One is always more vexed at losing a game of any sort by a single hole or ace, than if one has never had a chance of winning it.

If a person has no delicacy, he has you in his power.