The chief use of wisdom lies in its teaching us to be masters of our passions and to control them with such skill that the evils which they cause are quite bearable, and even become a source of joy.

The reading of good books is like a conversation with the best men of past centuries— in fact like a prepared conversation, in which they reveal only the best of their thoughts.

Wonder is the first of all passion.

In order to seek truth, it is necessary once in the course of our life to doubt, as far as possible, of all things.

Reason is the only thing that makes us men, and distinguishes us from the beasts.

What does reason know? Reason only knows what it has succeeded in learning.

I think therefore I am.

The entire method consists in the order and arrangement of the things to which the mind’s eye must turn so that we can discover some truth.

It is best not to go on for great quest for truth, it will only make you miserable.

I desire to live in peace and to continue the life I have begun under the motto ’to live well you must live unseen.