In politics, what begins in fear usually ends in folly.

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

All the ills of democracy can be cured by more democracy.

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

To be turned from one’s course by men’s opinions, by blame, and by misrepresentation shows a man unfit to hold office.

The Revolution is made by man, but man must forge his revolutionary spirit from day to day.

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

It is a certain sign of a wise government and proceeding, when it can hold men’s hearts by hopes, when it cannot by satisfaction.

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

Politics is the art of the possible.

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

If you must take care that your opinions do not differ in the least from those of the person with whom you are talking, you might just as well be alone.

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