Politics, n. A strife of interests masquerading as a contest of principles. The conduct of public affairs for private advantage.

Let him who desires peace prepare for war.

There is no method by which men can be both free and equal.

I shall be an autocrat: that’s my trade. And the good Lord will forgive me: that’s his.

The spirit of liberty is the spirit which is not too sure it is right.

Out of the crooked timber of humanity no straight thing was ever made.

The poor have sometimes objected to being governed badly; the rich have always objected to being governed at all.

Envy is the basis of democracy.

On the loftiest throne in the world, we still sit only on our own rump.

A riot is at bottom the language of the unheard.

The more corrupt the republic, the more numerous the laws.

I am no courtesan, nor moderator, nor tribune, nor defender of the people: I am myself the people.

My people and I have come to an agreement that satisfies us both. They are to say what they please, and I am to do what I please.