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

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

Let him who desires peace prepare for war.

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.

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

The most hateful torment for men is to have knowledge of everything but power over nothing.

Envy is the basis of democracy.

The first requirement of a statesman is that he be dull.

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

Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.

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

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

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