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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Politics is the art of preventing people from taking part in affairs which properly concern them.

Let him who desires peace prepare for war.

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

The U.S. presidency is a Tudor monarchy plus telephones.

A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can always count on the support of Paul.

Every country has the government it deserves.

A riot is at bottom the language of the unheard.