There is nothing more tyrannical than a strong popular feeling among a democratic people.

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

It is impossible to tell which of the two dispositions we find in men is more harmful in a republic, that which seeks to maintain an established position or that which has none but seeks to acquire it.

Politics is the art of the possible.

People revere the Constitution yet know so little about it—and that goes for some of my fellow senators.

The affairs of the world are no more than so much trickery, and a man who toils for money or honor or whatever else in deference to the wishes of others, rather than because his own desire or needs lead him to do so, will always be a fool.

You should never have your best trousers on when you go out to fight for freedom and truth.

Why has the government been instituted at all? Because the passions of men will not conform to the dictates of reason and justice without constraint.

A real leader is somebody who can help us overcome the limitations of our own individual laziness and selfishness and weakness and fear and get us to do better, harder things than we can get ourselves to do on our own.

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

Treaties, you see, are like girls and roses: they last while they last.

O citizens, first acquire wealth; you can practice virtue afterward.

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.