The English think they are free. They are free only during the election of members of parliament.

Free people, remember this maxim: we may acquire liberty, but it is never recovered if it is once lost.

Man was born free, and he is everywhere in chains.

Force does not constitute right... obedience is due only to legitimate powers.

Most nations, as well as people are impossible only in their youth; they become incorrigible as they grow older.

I undertake the same project as Montaigne, but with an aim contrary to his own: for he wrote his Essays only for others, and I write my reveries only for myself.